League One strugglers Port Vale have announced new manager Jon Brady. Fans are hoping this appointment will help the Valiants avoid relegation to League Two. Port Vale currently sit at the bottom of League One, in 24th, with a points tally of 18. They are 5 points off 23rd-placed Doncaster and 10 points from safety. With survival being the aim, the new manager will have a big task on his hands.
Port Vale fans were calling for ex-manager Darren Moore to be sacked long before the board eventually let the manager go. Moore, who led Port Vale to a second-place finish in the 24/25 season, gained automatic promotion to League One. Darren Moore was first wanted out by fans around November time; however, his eventual sacking came after a 5-0 defeat away at Huddersfield on Boxing Day.
The Valiants have appointed Aussie Jon Brady, who has previously managed Northampton Town. His time as Cobbler’s boss saw him gain promotion to League One, as well as taking them to their highest League One finish. Brady stepped down as Northampton boss after having a poor run of results, going six games without a win. He had been out of management for a year before taking the job at Vale Park.
Port Vale fans have reacted positively to Brady’s appointment on social media, with many sharing a message backing the gaffer and the team. In Brady’s welcome interview, released by the club, he stated that the primary focus is “to retain League One status” and that he wants the fans to get behind the team. Jon Brady’s first game in charge is FA Cup action. On Friday, January 9th, they face League Two Fleetwood Town. Brady will also have the rest of the January transfer window to adapt and improve the Vale squad.