Vale squad stretched in key areas for crucial cup clash
It seems remarkable that after assembling such a large squad, Vale will be short of personnel in key areas on Sunday.
The suspensions of Kjell Knops and Sam Hart leaves Kiko as the only recognisable left-back for the game.
Meanwhile, with Jerome Thomas doubtful and Gezim Shalaj apparently not considered matchfit, Sam Kelly remains the only recognised winger.
Injury to Sam Foley and the suspension handed out to Anthony Grant leaves Vale short of their two most experienced central midfielders. With Paulo Tavares sidelined after a poor run of form is it time for Vale to hand experienced veteran Michael Brown a start for what is a crucial cup tie?
Upfront, youngster Dan Turner (pictured above) is cup-tied and will probably be joined by the injured duo of Martin Paterson and Anton Forrester on the sidelines. It leaves just Alex Jones and Rigino Cicilia as the remaining available forwards.
Despite the absentees from the squad, Vale will be praying that they can reach the third round and ease the pressure on underfire manager Bruno Ribeiro.