Key defender extends his stay with Port Vale

Long-serving Nathan Smith, one of the contenders for player of the season, has agreed a new contract with the club.

Smith, who progressed through the youth team, has agreed a two-year extension to his current contract. Smith made his first-team debut in 2016 and has been a near ever-present since then.

Director of Football Dave Flitcroft told the official website: “Nathan has had another outstanding season; we see him as one of the cultural carriers within the dressing room and squad, with the example he sets on a daily basis.

“He has adapted and developed into a League One player and continues to represent the supporters, the board, his teammates and the staff in the way he plays, with his bravery and warrior-like attitude to the game.

“We have been in negotiations with Nathan and his representatives for over six weeks and have discussed the club’s plans to support our League One growth. It is pleasing that Nathan wants to be a part of that journey and important to him that he can continue to develop as a League One player.”