Port Vale summer review: June sees the Valiants in some forward-thinking
We take a look back over the summer months by focusing on the month of June…
June began with the news of more encouraging season ticket sales while a new defender arrived in the form of Kieran Kennedy, who was described as a ball-playing defender by manager John Askey. The manager also announced that he would look to trialists to replace the departed Sam Hornby. There was great news for Vale fans with the announcement that highly-rated Manny Oyeleke had agreed to stay with the club.
It’s a big statement by the club to get Manny under contract and it shows that he sees something exciting is happening here which is great. For Manny to sign a two-year deal, it’s a step in the right direction for the club and that’s important if we want to progress…
Port Vale manager John Askey
Former owner Norman Smurthwaite denied interest in taking over Notts County but Vale fans were more interested in the future as Mick Ede confirmed two former youth teamers would be given professional deals. In another reference to future events, new owners the Shanahans vow that kit delays will not happen again.
News on former Valiants
- Loanee Kyle Howkins (right) agreed a contract with League Two rivals Newport County
- Former midfielder Nathan Ferguson was somewhat surprisingly snapped up by Crawley Town on a three year deal.
- Winger Jennison Myrie-Williams was signed by Gloucester City
- Finally, striker JJ Hooper moved to National League side Wrexham
The Valiants received a perhaps unexpected financial boost when youth winger Luke Daley was sold to Huddersfield Town. By mid-June, season ticket sales had reached the 2,000 mark and Vale learnt their 2019-20 fixtures would begin with a trip to Colchester United.
The new arrivals continued to pour in. Striker Ricky Miller was let go with Vale bringing in the experienced Mark Cullen and the powerful Richie Bennett to replace him. Meanwhile, Ryan Lloyd completed his widely anticipated return to the Valiants. Vale finished a satisfactory month with the news that they had sold just under 3,500 season tickets.