Port Vale Football Club has terminated the contract of manager Darren Moore with immediate effect, following a dismal run of form that has left the team anchored to the bottom of League One.
A Decision Forced by Dire League Position
The club's hierarchy acted after a 5-0 thrashing away to Huddersfield Town on Friday night cemented their perilous situation. The defeat left Vale ten points from safety and a stark seven points adrift at the very foot of the table.
In an official statement, the club explained the reasoning behind the move. "This has been a difficult decision and one we haven't taken lightly, but we believe now is the right moment to make a change," it read. The statement added that while they had given the project time and support, the board felt compelled to act in the club's long-term interests.
Moore's Tumultuous Tenure at Vale Park
The 51-year-old former West Bromwich Albion boss, who is famously remembered for winning the Premier League Manager of the Month award just hours before his side's relegation was confirmed, was appointed by Port Vale in February 2023.
He was handed a lengthy five-and-a-half year contract but saw the team relegated to League Two after managing only two wins in 17 matches at the end of last season. Moore then masterminded an immediate promotion back to League One, a feat he described as creating "memories that I will always keep in my heart."
However, the current campaign has been a severe struggle. The Valiants have claimed just three victories from their opening 21 league games, a record that ultimately proved unsustainable.
Manager's Farewell and Search for Successor
In a parting message, Darren Moore expressed his gratitude. "It has been a real privilege to manage Port Vale and to represent such a proud football club," he said. "I want to thank the players, staff and supporters for their backing during my time at Vale Park."
The club will now begin the urgent process of searching for a new manager to lead a survival fight in the third tier, with their next appointment critical to their hopes of avoiding a second relegation in as many years.
