Vale unsure over extent of Chris Neal’s ankle injury

Port Vale have announced that they are unable to determine the extent of goalkeeper Chris Neal’s injury until the swelling goes down.

Neal was injured in the early stages of the friendly win over Notts County and was replaced by Sam Johnson.

The club’s assistant manager Paul Bodin commented: “Chris went over on his ankle early in the game against Notts County and there is still a fair bit of swelling, but until we get the all of the results  back and the swelling goes down a bit we won’t know the extent of the injury.

“It would obviously be a big blow if he doesn’t make it for the start of the season, but at the same time it is an opportunity for Sam.

“Rob has gone on record saying that it is a great opportunity. He is an experienced ‘keeper, he has played twenty odd games so he’s not making his debut or coming in as a novice.

“We have got a lot of faith in big Sam – he and Ryan Boot are working exceptionally hard with the goalkeeping coach and they have come on leaps and bounds.”