Port Vale 23-24 season squad preview – wingbacks and midfield
There’s been plenty of changes… Rob Fielding reviews the club’s summer transfer moves in the midfield area…
Transfers
Outs:
Tom Pett (released), Rory Holden (released), David Worrall (Barrow)
Ins:
Mitch Clarke (Accrington), Conor Grant (Plymouth), Tom Sang (Cardiff City), Jason Lowe (Salford City), Oliver Arblaster (Sheff Utd, loan), Ethan Chislett (AFC Wimbledon)
Analysis
On the flanks…
One of the key questions for next season would appear to be how Vale replace Worrall’s assists on the right flank…
Early summer talk was dominated by the departure of a Vale Park fixture as David Worrall left for Barrow. One of the key questions for next season would appear to be how Vale replace Worrall’s assists on the right flank? It’s still to be seen, but it’s fair to say the club has plenty of options there. The signing of Mitch Clark was much anticipated and he is favourite to start on the right. However, Vale have several other options with Lewis Cass, youngster James Plant and the much maligned Gavin Massey all able to play there, while summer signing Tom Sang is also able to play wide right. However, quantity is one thing, quality is another and the loss of the diminutive winger could still be keenly felt.
On the left flank, things seem much simpler. If he keeps fit, former Plymouth man Conor Grant is surely favourite to start there with Mal Benning (after ending speculation over his future) as experienced cover and youngster Jack Shorrock as a third option.
In the middle…
With Ojo, Sang and Garrity in situ, Vale have a strong albeit fairly uncreative central unit. It arguably lacks that playmaker who can unlock the opposing defence…
One of the noticeable elements of the new signings is their versatility. Both Sang and Grant can line-up in the middle or wider. Sang looks the most likely to be deployed in the central, possibly as part of a defensive duo with vice-captain Funso Ojo. The addition of Jason Lowe, another who can play in multiple positions, provides experienced cover for both, while youngster Rhys Walters has impressed in the summer and may also make the squad as cover.
It seems Vale have the defensive midfield positions filled and unlike last season, where Ben Garrity and Tom Conlon were both deployed further back at times, fans will hope this allows the lung-busting Garrity to be deployed further upfield. Aside from the new additions, the retention of Garrity on an long-term deal was a major bonus from the summer, while the fresh injury to Tom Conlon was another blow for the local lad who could now face a battle to regain a place.
One reason for Conlon facing increased competition is the additions of Ethan Chislett and Oliver Arblaster, both of whom can play in advanced positions.
With Ojo, Sang and Garrity in situ, Vale have a strong, albeit fairly uncreative, central unit. It arguably lacks that playmaker who can unlock the opposing defence. Could either one of Chislett or Arblaster provide it? Manager Andy Crosby has already tipped Chislett to make an impact next season. The midfielder, headband and all, looks the part and is probably favourite to bring a spark due to his greater experience. However, youngster Arblaster comes with rave reviews from some Blades fans.
Finally, in the more advanced positions, there’s homegrown youngster Tommy McDermott, who may benefit from regular football during a loan move.
The verdict…
The addition of Sang and the retention of Garrity means Vale’s engine room won’t lack for energy. However, with Conlon sidelined and Grant having had his injury problems in the past, the question of where the creativity comes from still remains. It will be fascinating to see if Chislett or Arblaster provide it, but right now the jury is out. Similarly, on the flanks, much depends on the ability to replace Worrall’s assists and Conor Grant remaining injury-free.
Rating
C