Two minute guide to: Northampton
It’s Vale’s biggest game for 19 years on Saturday and here’s our lightning quick guide to Vale’s opponents on the big day.
Any other business?
You’re joking right? This week has been awash with Vale stories – from the announcement of the third-kit to the extraordinary ticket sales, the restoration of the Lorne Street clock to the rumours of Robbie Williams being at the Vale. This is being heralded as the biggest Vale game in 19 years…
Man in charge?
Aidy Boothroyd was once linked with the Vale as the favoured choice of manager if Mo Chaudry took over. He was appointed Northampton boss in November 2011. He has managed 31 wins, 19 draws and 28 losses.
Last time we met?
Northampton won 2-0 in a match totally overshadowed by a serious injury to Alex Nicholls. John McCombe saw red for the challenge and the big defender later passed on his best wishes for a speedy recovery. We’d echo those sentiments and hope that Alex’s recovery is going according to plan.
Overall record?
Northampton have won 24 games compared to Vale’s 18. There have been 19 draws. Vale are unbeaten in the last two matches to take place at Vale Park.
Connections?
Lee Collins(right) should face his former team-mates. However, Dave Arell, who jumped ship in the summer won’t as he in on loan at Wrexham. Other players to appear for both sides include Marc Richards, Leon Constantine, Harry Benson, Gary Mulligan, Ashley Westwood, Marc Laird, Ian Taylor, Sam Togwell, Des Lyttle, Paul Harsley, Martin Aldridge (RIP), Darren Hughes, Jason Beckford, Mickey Bell and Bradley Sandeman.
Team news?
Vale will be missing Ben Williamson, Rob Taylor and Calvin Andrew. But Ashley Vincent (right) may return to the squad. Leading scorer Adebayo Akinfenwa has been passed fit but fellow Town striker Clive Platt misses out.
Pre-match quotes
“We all know the enormity of this game. We all know what’s at stake. The players have seen the queues for tickets and they know what it means. We have a fantastic chance to create a bit of history, and I want to make sure we do. That is the motivation. Not that they should need any motivation, if they can’t get up for this one then they never will. But at the same time there has to be discipline. We need to stick to the game plan. We have 90 minutes to win the game, we don’t have to do it in the first 10 or 20.”
– Micky Adams
“They have progressed well this season and they are where they are on merit. They deserve to be looking to go up automatically.”
– Aidy Boothroyd