Birchall could be one of three changes for Colchester game

Chris Birchall could replace Byron Moore if the winger fails a fitness test ahead of Vale’s visit to Colchester United.

Birchall would be favourite to replace Moore, while Northern Ireland international Ryan McGivern is in line to replace injured centre-half Richard Duffy.

Duffy is suspended for reaching five yellow cards, while ironically Anthony Grant is expected to return to the Vale starting eleven after being banned for the same reason against Peterborough.

Grant could replace midfielder Michael O’Connor who is still finding his way back to full fitness after missing the start of the season.