Vale close to appointing manager

Micky Adams was one of three candidates interviewed for the Vale job

Port Vale expect to name their new manager by Wednesday, chairman Bill Bratt has told BBC Radio Stoke.

The League Two side have been searching for a new boss since relieving Dean Glover of his duties on 1 May.

"The interviews went very well. It will be difficult to choose between them, but we'll hopefully come to a decision by Tuesday or Wednesday," said Bratt.

John Ward, Micky Adams, and a man who Bratt claims is "a surprise contender" have been interviewed for the role.

Bratt added: "We've got three good candidates and we're sorting out which is the best one for the club.

"They've all got the criteria that we've asked for. They've all managed at a good level, they've all had success, and they know players in this division.

"Micky Adams has got the right criteria and he's definitely in the reckoning. Both he and John Ward interviewed very well and it's going to be a very difficult decision."

Glover, who spent seven months as first-team manager, was offered a coaching role within the club's youth setup.

However, he turned the offer down, ending an 18-year association with Port Vale.

Glover could not stop Vale sliding to an 18th-place finish in their first season back in League Two for 22 years.