OVF feature: She leads by example – David Flitcroft pays tribute to Carol Shanahan for “inclusive” Port Vale approach

[News Feed]

Port Vale Director of Football David Flitcroft says the club’s chair Carol Shanahan leads by example as she inspires supporters, staff and players to “feel part of something”. Flitcroft spoke exclusively to BBC Radio Stoke’s Phil Bowers about the club’s club’s recruitment and its plans for the future. Making them feel good about themselves. That’s […]

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[Joe B]

I was initially a bit skeptical of Flitcroft's Brentisms, but he's well and truly won me over. I'd wanted a DoF for a while but was unsure whether he was the man considering he's more of a coach, but he's delivering excellently.

Taking away the fact that the summer signings largely look pretty good, and the squad has clearly been constructed in a considered manner, I love that he mentions how proactive he and the recruitment team have been ahead of January, already considering the 'what ifs' of loan recalls, injuries, people becoming available. 

Such a refreshing change from 'oooooh, signing in January is bad' and 'wait till the end to get cheaper deals' approach we've had over the last few seasons. It was reactive and ad hoc.

He also references 'future-proofing' the club, with the academy being one of the most underperforming academies in the country. He's got a great job as he's got a blank canvas to build a great club on, supported by (imo) the best owner in the country.

[manc_vale]

The summer clearout was (for some) controversial. But I suspect the clear out was used to help to attract some of the players who are now on the books. I'm sure lines such as the following were used to all new recruits 'we are building a brand new team for promotion' 'ignore what went on in other seasons, ignore the playing staff' ...

The management team have done a brilliant job turning the club around. There can be no doubt that we are in far better shape now than in many past seasons.

Also, once again, hats off to Carol, her drive and commitment and care are really setting us apart.

Loving this season...