Port Vale winger has to undergo surgery

Port Vale winger Chris Birchall has been ruled out for up to six weeks after having knee surgery.

Birchall was injured shortly after coming on as a substitute  in the 1-0 win over Bury on Monday.

Manager Rob Page told the Sentinel: “It is disappointing for him. He is a great lad to have in and around the changing room and a great lad to be able to start. He has proven he can score goals for me.

“He’s also a great lad to have because I can trust him 100 per cent if I need him to come on at any stage of the game, whether that is defensively or to give us something to change the game.

“So, he will be a miss for us. But it gives somebody now an opportunity to step into his shoes.”