Port Vale press conference review – Lloyd leaves, Taylor injury blow
Port Vale manager Darrell Clarke has updated the local press ahead of the game with Swindon Town on Saturday.
Here’s a summary of the Thursday press conference:
George Lloyd returns to Cheltenham Town
Clarke confirmed that injured loanee George Lloyd has returned to parent club Cheltenham Town. Lloyd was signed on a season-long loan but suffered a serious injury which would see him miss several months and the cancellation of the deal does not come as a great surprise with Vale adding two loan strikers in the transfer window.
Jake Taylor suffers injury blow
Clarke confirmed that midfielder Jake Taylor continued to be ruled out through injury. He told the media: “Unfortunately Jake has had a similar injury for the last three or four injuries, in his quad.”
No news on Cass and Politic
The Valiants manager said there was “nothing further” to add about the futures of loanees Lewis Cass and Dennis Politic. Politic has been linked with a possible permanent move to the Potteries as well as suggestions of a potential recall by Bolton.
Rodney still part of plans
After transfer rumours about Devante Rodney circulated, Clarke said the striker was “still in my plans” and that the player was in the process of recovering from injury.
Hussey move adds to competition for places
Clarke was keen to say that the signing of Chris Hussey did not mean the future of James Gibbons was in doubt. Clarke told the media: “It is not just about James Gibbons. I love Gibbo to bits, he is a great lad. But to be successful you need competition for places, it is as simple as that. Here, now, as we stand, I have two right wing backs in David Worrall and James Gibbons and two left wing backs in Mal Benning and Chris Hussey.
“Competition for places is key. Gibbo is a big part of the plans I want to build here but everybody has to fight hard for their place. That is how I want it and that is where it needs to be if we are going to be successful.”
Tributes paid to Legge
The Vale boss also paid fulsome tribute to the departed defender Leon Legge saying: “With some players, I am happy to get them out of the door – not at the minute but with some players – but Leon was a great lad and I wish him every success.”