Released and then what? What happened next to players that Port Vale let go this summer?

One has played in the Champions League while in contrast two have yet to find a new club. Here’s what’s happened to the released players who departed Vale Park this summer.

Sammy Robinson

The defender was brought in from the Manchester City youth ranks and made his breakthrough to the first-team in the 2022-23 season. His spell didn’t get off to the best of starts – his full debut was a 4-0 loss to Exeter – and ended badly as he was sent-off at Lincoln City after coming on as a sub. In late September, Robinson moved to Kidderminster Harriers of the National League where he has now made three appearances.

Lucas Covolan

Sent on loan to Chesterfield for the entirety of the 2022-23 season, it was always a certainty that the Brazilian would be released in the summer. After making just 22 appearances for the Valiants in two seasons, the former Torquay United stopper has now joined Maidstone United of the National League South. Covolan has been the regular first choice for his new club this season.

Rory Holden

The injury-plagued midfielder joined Welsh side the New Saints after his release and was immediately involved in their European Champions League qualifying campaign. He duly scored his first goal for his new club in a tie against Luxembourg side Swift Hepserange. In his solitary season with the Valiants the midfielder managed just five starts.

Jamie Proctor

After an injury plagued second season with the Valiants, the 31 year-old was released in the summer. Proctor joined former Vale team mate David Worrall at League Two side Barrow. The experienced striker agreed a one year deal with the League Two outfit. Proctor has scored once in seven appearances for his new club

James Wilson

The striker somewhat surprisingly ended up back at Vale Park after turning down a contract offer in the summer. Wilson was spotted on trial at Fleetwood Town but a move never materisalised so he returned to training with the Valiants, signing a short-term deal as a result. He has scored two goals so far this season. It takes his Vale tally to 21 goals in 88 games.