Micky Adams has left Port Vale to take over as manager at Sheffield United.
The much-travelled ex-Fulham, Brighton and Leicester boss, 49, has agreed a two-and-a-half year deal to become Gary Speed’s successor at Bramall Lane.
United have agreed to compensate Vale, with Adams leaving the Potteries club in second place in League Two.
Micky Adams
Former Blades player Alan Cork will be Adams’ number two, while caretaker manager John Carver and assistant boss Sam Ellis have left the club.
Adams arrived at Vale Park in June 2009 and, within 18 months, has turned them into a promotion-chasing side.
Having come through the youth ranks at Bramall Lane before beginning his playing career with Gillingham, Adams has made no secret that he is a Blades fan.
He told the club website: “I’ve always supported the Blades and my favourite player growing up was Tony Currie. He was and still is my biggest idol.
“There is no doubt that my task is threefold. Firstly, to ensure that we avoid relegation and there is clearly enough time left in the season to do that.
“Secondly, to help us become a team that can challenge for promotion.
“Lastly, to develop a structure that will us build a reputation for home grown talent that fans can be proud of in their team.
“With the support of the board and the football staff, I intend to do everything I can to bring all that about.”
Former Sheffield United manager Dave Bassett, a close friend of Adams, told BBC Radio Stoke he would do a good job at his hometown club.
“Micky grew up watching them and there is always that dream of being their manager,” said Bassett.
“It will be a hard job, but Micky has got some good qualities.
“He’s worked as a coach, he’s managed at Fulham, Brighton, Brentford and we worked together at Nottingham Forest and Leicester.
“He has a good background and that’s important.”
Let North Staffs Football your thoughts about his departure – will this ruin Vale’s promotion chances?
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