Two minute guide to: Notts County v Port Vale
Here’s our brief guide to Port Vale’s first fixture of 2018 – an away trip to Notts County…
Essentials
Match details
Vale form guide
Vale’s top scorers
Predict the score
News
Match background
Vale obtained their result of the year on Saturday when they thrashed league leaders Luton Town 4-0 at Vale Park.
The result stretches Vale’s unbeaten run to five games including two unbeaten away.
What will the Vale look like?
The main concern for Vale will be the availability of Ben Whitfield (right). The forward’s loan deal has expired and unless Vale agree an extension he is likely to have to sit this one out.
Defender Gavin Gunning (right) could also be missing after he limped out of the win over Luton. If Gunning fails to make it, he is likely to be replaced by Tom Anderson who deputised for the Irishman on Saturday.
Pre-match quote
“The players are doing their jobs well and they’re working hard, but Monday will be a difficult game because it comes so quickly and today would’ve taken a lot out of the players. I’ve got to have a look and see what options I have available, but the mood in the camp is really good at the moment. If you play like we did against Luton, you’re going to have a good atmosphere around the place and let’s hope we can continue on…”
Manager Neil Aspin
Boss watch
Kevin Nolan
The 35 year-old began his managerial career at Leyton Orient and joined County in January 2017.
History lesson
Overall record
- Port Vale wins: 36
- Port Vale losses: 45
- Draws: 20
Last time…
The last time we played Notts County away it ended in victory for the Valiants. The Vale won the game thanks to an early seventh minute strike by Mark Marshall (right). The Vale team that day also featured future County players Carl Dickinson and Michael O’Connor.
Played for both…
In addition to the afore-mentioned Dickinson and O’Connor, Dan Jones and Richard Duffy (right) completes a quartet of former Valiants in the County squad.