Football Season Review

It was another odd season in the Potteries as Port Vale finished in the bottom half of League 2. Carol Shanahan was the only owner in the EFL who voted with her conscious rather than in self-interest when the global Covid-19 pandemic brought an abrupt end to last season and 'points per game' was used to decide the final tables. It meant Port Vale missed out on a play-off place and if there is such a thing has karma, it certainly hasn’t worked quickly for the Valiants. John Askey kept most of his side together but they were unable to repeat the previous season’s form. In fact it tailed off alarmingly and Askey was sacked in January following a run of just win in 12. David Flitcroft was appointed Director of Football and his primary objective was to find Askey’s successor. Darrell Clarke was a surprise and underwhelming choice. His Walsall outfit were far from successful and he made a dreadful start, failing to win any of his opening seven games. With a relegation looming large, results took a surprise turn and the side won their next six games on the bounce. Clarke inherited a bloated squad and will be getting rid of the dead wood this summer. He has a strong spine to build from with defender Nathan Smith, midfielder Tom Conlon, winger David Worrall and striker Devante Rodney. A better showing will be expected next season.

Player of the Season: David Worrall