Two minute guide to: Southend United
We take a look ahead to the Vale’s next game with our brief guide to our League Two visitors Southend United.
Man in charge
Vastly experienced Paul Sturrock took over in 2010. Sturrock has managed over 800 games for St Johnsone, Plymouth, Southampton and Swindon. He’s been in charge of 157 Southend games; winning 66, losing 49 and drawing 42.
Last time we met
The last meeting was back in November where both sides played out a 0-0 draw at Roots Hall.
Overall record
Vale hold a slight advantage with 24 wins to Southend’s 21. There have been 30 draws. However, Vale have failed to win their last three home games against United with Southend securing two victories and a draw. Vale’s last home win over Southend was back in 2005 with the Valiants winning 2-1 thanks to goals from Constantine and Husbands.
Featured connection
Former Valiant Luke Prosser (right) has been a fairly regular member of the Southend side this season. The former Tottenham youth team player joined Vale’s junior ranks and made his debut in 2008. He was in and around the Vale first-team squad in the 2008-2009 season making 28 appearances but was released by Micky Adams in 2010. He was subsequently signed by Southend United and the 24 year-old has now made 78 appearances in all competitions for United including 30 this season.
Other connections
Former Vale loan player Marc Laird could face the Valiants. Other players to appear for both clubs include Brett Angell, Peter Clarke, Billy Paynter, Leon Constantine, Michael Husbands, Martin Aldridge (RIP), Joe Allon, Dave Barnett, Peter Beadle, Neville Southall, Kevin Steggles, Danny Maye and Billy Kellock.
Team news
Both of Vale’s regular full-backs Richard Duffy and Daniel Jones are struggling to make the game. If neither make it the likes of Adam Yates, Rob Taylor and Anthony Griffith may fill in. Meanwhile, captain Doug Loft is suspended and fellow midfielder Ryan Burge has been ill which leaves Vale short of numbers in midfield. Sam Morsy (right) may come into contention there.
Visitors Southend have Mark Phillips (broken toe), Chris Barker (Achilles), Marc Laird (hamstring) and Gavin Tomlin (thigh) in contention.
Pre-match quotes
“We have got some big games coming up against teams that are going to be in and around the promotion picture, as we can help ourselves. The good thing is we are in a good position and it is all about us and what we do.”
– Micky Adams
“We know it will be difficult and one look at the league table shows you why but Port Vale have won one of their last six games and have only scored two goals during that time. We need to be going there looking to win, especially after conceding a last minute equaliser against Rotherham last weekend.”
– Southend assistant manager Graham Coughlin
“They aren’t on a very good run themselves at the moment and seem to be struggling a little bit. Vale gave me my start in football so I like to see them winning games. But I won’t be showing any sentiment tomorrow because I’m a Southend United player and we need the three points.”
– Luke Prosser