John Rudge joined City as Director of Football in 1999 just months after leaving Potteries rivals Port Vale following a 16-year stint as manager.

Tagged as the greatest manager in the club's history at Vale Park, John arrived with a wealth of experience and pedigree after turning the Valiants into genuine Premiership contenders.

Vale had never before hit the heights they reached during John's tenure in charge, after he guided them from the old fourth division to the upper reaches of Division 1, as well as overseeing Premiership sides Everton and Tottenham Hotspur in the FA Cup.

He gained a reputation as someone who would quickly spot talent, after bringing through players such as Ian Taylor, Steve Guppy and Mark Bright, all of whom made the Vale a healthy profit.

The newly appointed role of 'Director of Football' has seen John working alongside numerous managers playing a key role in new signings, training and scouting trips.