BY anyone's standards, it's been a topsy-turvy start to the season, writes Martin Tideswell.

We got off to an absolute flier in both the league and the Carling Cup, only to be brought right back down to earth with a spanking at Premier League Fulham.

Then last Saturday the lads turned in a pretty tepid performance during which our midfield went absent for a large part of the second half.

Having said that, had we taken our chances we could have salvaged a point against Torquay.

Fortunately, we bounced back on Tuesday with a morale-boosting win over Rochdale in the "Paint Pot Trophy".

Crucially, our strike force of the Richards boys is gelling nicely and I can see them scoring 40 goals between them this season.

If that is supplemented by goals from other areas, then Vale will be top six come next May.

So much rests, of course, on the shoulders of manager Micky Adams.

We are so fortunate to have a no-nonsense gaffer who has had a galvanising effect on the whole club.

Whether I speak to supporters, players or board members, it seems we all agree Micky is doing a fine job.

For me, keeping the manager happy and in place is absolutely key to Vale's success in the short to medium term.

Sadly, the proposed Mike Newton investment saga hangs over Vale Park like a dark cloud.

I was very happy the board rejected Newton's offer, which would have resulted in him becoming chairman. I was also delighted he rejected the offer of a seat on the board.

Bill Bratt has now stepped down as chief executive, but will remain as chairman.

This is a good move. Bill's steady hand will remain on the tiller, but this move allows the club to appoint a new CEO – fresh blood with new ideas.

By the same token, the pro-Newton faction among supporters can no longer criticise Bill for taking a salary out of the club.

The moaners and downright nasty elements among fans who have used the Newton affair as yet another stick with which to beat the board will doubtless carry on sniping while condemning supporters like me.

Good luck to them.

I believe in evolution, not revolution and will continue to support the club in a positive fashion – along with the silent, sensible majority.