Two minute guide to: Wycombe
Vale round off a superb season with a trip to Wycombe Wanderers – who will be marking the end of Gareth Ainsworth’s playing career – here’s our guide to the opponents.
Man in charge?
Gareth Ainsworth needs little introduction to Vale fans, the Vale legend is the club’s record purchase and record sale. Ainsworth has been in charge for 41 games, winning 17, losing 17 and drawing seven. Saturday’s game marks the end of Ainsworth’s playing career with his 600th senior appearance (including a memorable 59 appearances and eleven goals for the Valiants). We hope both sets of fans give him the ovation he deserves.
– Read our interview with Ainsworth here
Any other business?
Vale are hoping to mathematically seal promotion and will only fail if there is a frankly ludicrous turnaround in goal difference. To some, it will be hugely appropriate that the Valiants clinch promotion at Adams Park. 2,854 away tickets have been allocated and almost all of them have been snapped up so it could be a party atmosphere.
Last time we met?
Vale ran out 4-1 winners back in October with Ben Williamson (right), Tom Pope (2) and Ashley Vincent on the scoresheet.
Overall record?
There have been three Vale wins, five Wycombe wins and five draws. The Valiants have only won once before at Adams Park and that was back in 2000.
Connections?
Another Vale legend Steve Guppy has appeared for both clubs while other players include Sam Stockley, Martin Bullock, Chris Herd, Kevin Scott and Micky Bell.
Team news
Chris Neal will be hoping to play the game and thus play in every league game this season. Ashley Vincent could be fit enough to make the squad but Rob Taylor (right) is ruled out.
Four Wycombe players remain sidelined with defender Anthony Stewart recovering from surgery after fracturing his hand.
Pre-match quotes
“I’m sure we wouldn’t be where we are now without the fans and the fantastic support they’ve given us. They’ve been unbelievable all season and it doesn’t surprise me to find out they’re going down there in big numbers tomorrow. I haven’t seen away support like it in League Two before and their support has been a credit to the club.”
– Chris Neal
“He’s had a fantastic career and it was a brilliant achievement to keep Wycombe up this year because they were down at the bottom when he took over. I’m sure he’ll get a good reception from both sets of fans.”
– Chris Neal again
“The club’s always bigger than me but I might try and have my little moment on Saturday. I don’t think anyone will begrudge me that.”
– Gareth Ainsworth