Port Vale confirm James Gibbons departure as defender signs for Bristol Rovers
Port Vale FC have confirmed that defender James Gibbons will leave the club following the expiration of his contract.
The news is a significant blow to the Valiants as Gibbons has been a highly valued and popular player during his time at the club.
Gibbons graduated from the Port Vale academy, making his first team debut at 18 years old and although his time was dogged by injury at times he became a firm fans favourite.
He made 138 appearances for the Vale, scoring three goals and helping Vale to secure promotion to Sky Bet League One last season via the play-offs.
Following the announcement of his departure, it was confirmed that the player would be signing for League One rivals Bristol Rovers. on a two year deal.
Gibbons sent this message to the fans following his departure:
HAVE YOUR SAY ON THIS RUMOUR – CLICK HERE TO POST A COMMENTAs many of you may be aware, my time at my boyhood club has come to an end. I am immensely proud to have represented a club I grew up playing for, through to being an apprentice and then in turn signing my first professional contract.
I will never forget my debut at 18 and to end on a high with promotion from league 2 is something I could only have ever wished for as an 11 year old signing for the club.
I would like to firstly thank the manager and his staff for their support and guidance, the owners and Colin Garlick but most importantly the fans for backing me every single time I pulled on the shirt.
It’s been an extremely difficult decision but at this phase in my life this presents a new challenge. Players come and go at clubs but I will never forget my journey and Port Vale have given me the opportunity to live every boys dream.
I leave with so many amazing memories. I leave with friends for life. UTV
Gibbo 🖤🤍