John Barnes has confirmed that he was interviewed for the managerial position at Port Vale before the appointment of Micky Adams at Vale Park.
The former England international told BBC Radio Stoke that talks took place before he became manager of Tranmere.
"There was truth in the rumours, but the way things worked out I ended up at Tranmere," said Barnes.
"I'm impressed with what Micky Adams has done throughout his career. He's been successful wherever he's gone."
"I'm looking forward to the day-to-day involvement of being a club manager again"
Barnes added: "Port Vale are an ambitious club, and I wish them all the best."
The 45-year-old won 79 England caps and made over 500 appearances for Watford, Liverpool, Newcastle United and Charlton Athletic.
He took over from Ronnie Moore at Prenton Park on 15 June, ending a nine-year exile from club management, after a spell in charge of the Jamaican national team.
"I can't wait," said Barnes. "I'm looking forward to the day-to-day involvement of being a club manager again.
"As an international manager you meet up with your players for four days every two months, whereas in club management they are your players and that's what football is all about."
He began his coaching career at Celtic, although he left the Scottish giants after only 10 months of an unsuccessful spell in charge.
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