Bristol Rovers icon Darrell Clarke sends touching message as he returns to work Port Vale boss stepped down in February after a close family bereavement.
Darrell Clarke, a Bristol Rovers great, has written a poignant note of appreciation to supporters following Port Vale’s announcement that he will be returning to work.
Following a close personal bereavement in February, the 44-year-old took a leave of absence, with interim manager Andy Crosby stepping in.
Clarke will make a ‘phased return’ to support Crosby in the dugout before returning to full command of the League Two club in the summer, according to Vale.
Rovers’ admiration for Clarke became abundantly plain once his leave of absence was announced, with Chris Lines, Gas CEO Tom Gorringe, the club, and supporters all wishing him well.
Clarke oversaw a memorable moment in Rovers history, guiding the club to back-to-back promotions from the National League to League One in 2015 and 2016 during a four-and-a-half-year tenure that concluded in 2018.
“From the bottom of my heart, I would like to thank the owners of the football club, my team, club staff, and all Port Vale supporters – as well as everyone from the wider football industry and community, including all the clubs I have been at and the League Managers’ Association (LMA) – for the incredible support shown to me and my family during what remains an unimaginably difficult time,” Clarke said of his emotional return, as reported on Vale’s official site.
“I’m humbled and grateful for everyone’s concern, love, and kindness.”
“This support has been invaluable; it has given me strength and is something I will never forget.” I truly feel like I’m a part of a very special family and community here in Port Vale, and I’m thrilled to be returning.”
Dave Flitcroft, Director of Football at Port Vale, stated, “I know I speak for everyone at Port Vale when I say we are absolutely delighted to have Darrell back at the club and to be able to benefit again from his expertise, vast experience, and the energy he brings.”
The team has only lost once in ten games, propelling them to fourth place and level on points with Rovers.
Clarke will undoubtedly receive a hero’s welcome from the travelling Rovers faithful when the two teams meet on April 18.
