New book on Port Vale legend who starred for Carlisle United

The man who played for the Blues in the 1960s will lift the lid on his eventful and hugely respected life in the game.

The book, which is due for release later this year, will include a section on Carlisle.

Rudge played for the Cumbrians from 1966-69 under the reigns of Alan Ashman, Tim Ward and Bob Stokoe.

Among his most famous games in the blue shirt was the 1-0 FA Cup victory over Newcastle United at St James’ Park in January 1968 – one of Carlisle’s most famous cup triumphs.

He also faced a star-studded Everton in the fourth round.

Rudge, far right, rises for a header in the FA Cup tie at Newcastle in 1968 (Image: News & Star)

Rudge played alongside stars such as Hugh McIlmoyle, Chris Balderstone, George McVitie and Peter McConnell during his time with the Blues.

Revealing the draft front cover of To Cap It All, the autobiography of John Rudge.
Watch out for details of how to pre-order. Coming soon!#JohnRudgeToCapItAll@PitchPublishing @PitchPubPR pic.twitter.com/nqkOdq8ArX

— To Cap It All (@ToCapItAllRudge) February 18, 2023

After joining United from Huddersfield Town, he scored 16 goals in 53 appearances for the club, including a brilliant hat-trick in a 6-1 win over Bolton Wanderers in 1967.

The centre-forward was part of the United side that finished third in Division Two in 1966/7 under Ashman, before going on to enjoy memorable cup exploits under Ward. He left for Torquay United in 1969.

Rudge’s co-author, Simon Lowe, confirmed that there will be a section on Carlisle in the book.

John Rudge leaves the pitch after United's sensational win at Newcastle (Image: News & Star)

It includes Rudge’s memories of Ashman, Ward, Stokoe, legendary trainer Dick Young and star players like McIlmoyle, McConnell and Balderstone.

Rudge also recalls his favourite United goal, the cup win at St James’ Park, fan protests against manager Ward, living in a freezing cold club house and breaking down over Shap after a 5-0 away defeat…

Rudge, back row second right, with United team-mates in the dressing room after their famous win at St James' Park (Image: News & Star)

The book, titled ‘To Cap It All’ also has a strong focus on Rudge’s long service at Port Vale, where he is held in high esteem.

He managed the club for 19 years, always wearing an iconic flat cap, before crossing the Potteries divide to Stoke City.

Rudge, 78, now president at Port Vale, was given a Contribution to League Football award by the EFL in 2021.

John Rudge is now club president at Port Vale, where fans are raising money for a statue (Image: PA)

Fans at Port Vale are raising money for a statue of Rudge at the ground.

The book – which features forewords by Sir Alex Ferguson and Vale owner Carol Shanahan – is due for publication by Pitch Publishing in October.