(Photo: Action Images via Reuters)
By Alex Beard
Port Vale have this morning confirmed the appointment of former Gateshead man Neil Aspin as their new manager, replacing the sacked Michael Brown.
The Valiants have been looking for Brown's replacement since dismissing him on the 16 September, and their search quickly zeroed in on the former Port Vale captain.
Aspin spent ten years at Vale Park during his playing career, leading the side to their Football League Trophy triumph in 1993.
The 52-year-old's appointment comes alongside the announcement of a new Director of Football John Rudge – who managed the club between 1983 and 1999.
Rudge remains the longest serving manager in Port Vale's history, and actually brought Aspin to the club during his time in charge.
The Valiants released a statement thanking Aspin's former club Gateshead for their co-operation during the negotiations, and Heed chairman Richard Bennett insisted Aspin left the club with their best wishes.
“Neil has left the club on very good terms,” he said, “He's an ambitious person and we couldn't stand in his way of managing a Football League side where he is held in such high regard.
“We would like to thank Neil for his services for the club and wish him the very best for the future.”
Aspin's departure brings an end to his near two-year reign with the Tyneside club, having previously enjoyed successful spells at Harrogate Town and Halifax Town.
He has clearly waited patiently for his opportunity in the Football League, and now takes over a Port Vale side third from bottom in League Two.
