Somewhat of a contrast after the glamour tie at the Etihad, there’s likely to be a somewhat smaller travelling contingent to see Vale take on Salford in the Football League Trophy..
Team news
Team newsAfter a hectic festive schedule, it’s highly probably there will be multiple changes to the Port Vale line-up for this game. As the club cannot make too many changes outside of their last matchday squad, we expect most of Saturday’s bench – Tom Conlon, Shaun Brisley, Will Atkinson, Richie Bennett, Rhys Browne, Mark Cullen (pictured right) and possibly reserve keeper Jonny Maddison to all start the game. Others to come into the starting eleven could include Ryan Lloyd, Callum Evans and Dan Trickett-Smith.
Other news
Other newsVale have announced that they will not be dipping into their pot of money from the Man City clash immediately. Owner Carol Shanahan (pictured right) told the Stoke Sentinel that she feels the January window is not a cost-effective time to spend the windfall so the money will be available in the summer and also used for ground improvements. Meanwhile, striker Tom Pope has apologised for a since deleted tweet which attracted national media attention.
Stats
StatsThe two sides have only met once before in a competitive fixture. That game took place in August earlier this season and ended in a honourable 1-1 draw. Striker Richie Bennett (pictured right) scored the Valiants’ goal and thus became the first Vale player to score a goal against Salford. Jake Beesley netted a 90th minute equaliser for the home side.
Opposition Guide
Opposition GuideManaged by former Preston North End and Burnley stalwart Graham Alexander, Salford are enjoying their first-ever season in the Football League. They sit in twelfth place in the table and reached this stage of the Football League Trophy by beating Wolves B 3-0 in the previous round. The club’s top scorer in the League is Adam Rooney but like Vale, Salford often rotate their squad for this tournament.
Connections
ConnectionsOne familiar face to Vale fans would be goalkeeper Chris Neal (pictured right). Neal was a key member of Vale’s 2013 promotion squad and joined Salford in the summer of 2018. However, the veteran goalkeeper is unlikely to feature today as Graham Alexander has tended to play Kyle Letheren in Football League Trophy games.
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