In-Depth: How Darrell Clarke galvanised Port Vale
Gab Sutton looks at how Darrell Clarke has galvanised Port Vale. Darrell is one of the most successful managers in English football over the last eight years. He won three promotions in his last six full seasons in management. Gab Sutton believes that Port Valenica's low budget makes them more secure. The Valensians are building for the future. They don't have to worry about getting poached. The Championship places more emphasis on the candidate's coaching or playing background.
Accrington Stanley have enjoyed a similar success under John Coleman. Vale are a bigger club that have played in a higher division in the previous era.
Darrell Clarke has changed his team six times this season. 28 different players have started league games for Port Vale this term. Last Saturday he made six changes to his starting XI, dropping forwards Dan Butterworth and Mipo Odubeko to the bench.
Darrell Clarke left out of the starting XI for Port Vale.
Darrell Clarke's side won the game despite losing James Wilson, Gavin Massey and Ellis Harrison.
Darrell Clarke's methods in management are unique in the modern game. He makes changes early to reflect trust in his squad. Port Vale average 4.41 substitutions per game in League One. The switch from three to five substituting allowed helps him in that regard. The former midfielder sets high standards for commitment. His side have won only three of their 17 league games. They have a worse result in three games, and have made at least one change before the start of the second half in seven of those. It's essential to adapt to each player's individual needs. Clarke believes keeping players on their toes is more valuable than giving them clarity of one XI and system.
Port Vale are currently 10th in the Championship table. They are 8/11 with BetVictor for a top-half finish and 7/1 for the top six.
Port Vale are currently 10th in the Championship table. They are 8/11 with BetVictor for a top-half finish.
Darrell Clarke has galvanised Port Vale.
