FORMER Oxford United captain Andy Crosby has been sacked as manager of Sky Bet League One rivals Port Vale.

Crosby stepped up from being assistant manager of the Valiants back in April, after the club parted company with Darrell Clarke. He then became permanent boss the following month.

However, a run of four defeats from seven culminated in a 3-0 defeat away at Fleetwood Town on Saturday.

The result left Vale 20th in League One, and just two points above the relegation zone.

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The Valiants said in a statement: “Port Vale Football Club has relieved Andy Crosby of his duties as first team manager. John Schofield will also leave his position as assistant manager.

“Andy’s three years at Vale Park included his part in our promotion to League One and two separate instances as interim manager.

“We’d like to thank both Andy and John for the time they have spent at Vale Park and would like to wish them all of the best with their future careers.

“The search for our new manager has already begun.”