Members of the Supporters Club, the Black and Gold Group and North London Valiants met with Carol Shanahan OBE, Matt Hancock, and Patrick Shanahan to discuss various matters on Monday evening, with the overarching aim of resetting the relationship between the Club, Owner, and Supporters in the best interest of Port Vale FC.
The meeting was centred on constructive and open dialogue, with a view to addressing supporters' concerns in respect of on-pitch performance and wider activity including Club communications, ticketing and matchday facilities, marking the start of renewed and regular future collaboration between the Club and its loyal supporter base.
Key points included:
- A clear commitment from fan groups in their support for the Shanahan family.
- A strong intent from all parties to reconnect the Club and the supporters, as well as acknowledgement that Club communication has not been at the level supporters should expect.
- Robust and honest feedback around accountability for football performance.
The Club was honest and candid in responding to queries and concerns, with all parties in agreement that the meeting represented a positive and significant step forward in realigning the Club’s commitment to putting supporters at the centre of its thinking.
A significant part of the discussion focused on the current football situation and the role of Director of Football, and although there were differing views on certain aspects, there was also - importantly - a mutual respect and agreement that the Club must improve communication on how performance is measured moving forward.
Supporters were provided with clarity and reassurances as to the scope of the role - one which has recently been complemented by the experience of newly-appointed manager Darren Moore and his coaching staff - with the Club's new-look football operation now confirmed as of last week. Moore and his team will work closely with David Flitcroft to review and shape football-related matters moving forward.
Crucially, a key theme of the meeting was a consensus on the need for togetherness. It was unequivocally agreed that, given our current fight to retain our League One status, everyone associated with Port Vale is urged to put aside their current frustrations to help give the players and management a much-needed lift.
As Owners, staff and supporters, we take collective pride in representing a Club that fights for each other and sticks together through difficult times, something that has been consistently evident throughout our great 148-year history. Together, we will do everything in our power to show those same qualities going into the final 12 league games of the season and look forward to progressing with a renewed approach and sense of unity.
UTV.