Adams In Talks With Blades

The news all Vale fans were dreading has arrived after Chairman Bill Bratt confirmed that the club have given Sheffield United permission to speak to Micky Adams over the vacant managerial position at Bramall Lane. Speculation has been rife since the news that Gary Speed had agreed to take the Welsh International job. Adams, a born and bred Blades supporter, has made no secret of his desire to one day manage his home town team, though until now has not seemed to be a serious contender for the position.

Doncaster Rovers manager Sean O`Driscoll had been the early favourite, and seemed set to take the job after being given permission to enter talks with the Championship strugglers. There has been confusion over recent days as to whether O`Driscoll has accepted or declined the job, leading the Blades to approach Brentford to speak to their highly rated manager, Andy Scott.

It may be possible that United are covering all bases whilst they negotiate with their number one choice. However, the news comes as a devastating blow to Vale`s promotion hopes. Adams has single-handedly turned around Vale`s fortunes after disastrous spells under the management of Lee Sinnott and Dean Glover, and it has to be doubtful whether the Vale will be able to maintain their current position without the experienced hand of the Yorkshireman.

It can only be hoped that should Adams depart, that he agrees not to sign any of Vale`s key players this January transfer window. Even the departure of Assistant Geoff Horsfield would be disruptive, as the hunt for a new boss, unfamiliar with the current set up and style of play could be fatal to Vale`s hopes of exiting League Two this season.

Bratt told the Official Site: “It’s testament to how well he has done at Port Vale that we have now been approached. Micky was offered a new contract before this happened and that is still on the table.

‘We obviously want him to stay with Port Vale and I know everyone connected with the club feels the same.’

Would Vale be able cope with the loss of Adams?

Join the debate at Vital Vale.



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