Successful loan deals, cup runs aplenty – the successes (and failures) of Port Vale’s season so far…
Rob Fielding looks at some the plus points and negative issues that have arisen from the 2023-24 Port Vale season as it currently stands…
Rob Fielding writes…
Successes
Ollie Arblaster: a huge loan success
Vale fans seem to be split into two camps about the merits of Andy Crosby as manager, but in his defence he’s pulled off several achievements this season that a host of previous Port Vale managers couldn’t manage. They include…
- Arguably the best use of the loan market in recent Vale history. Comparing last season’s additions (Thierry Small, Liam McCarron and Mipo Odubeko to name just three) they are just not in the same class as the likes of Ollie Arblaster and Alfie Devine. With the exception of the frequently injured Kofi Balmer, all of Vale’s loan additions this campaign have featured heavily in the Vale squad. Arblaster and Devine have forged starting places while Josh Thomas has impressed whenever he’s been given a chance. Not only have the new boys added youthful vigour and quality to the side but their presence in the starting XI may persuade other higher placed clubs to trust Vale with the development of their young talent. Rating: A+
- Embarking on several, simultaneous cup runs. OK, it’s not involved any giantkillings or that much drama but it’s remarkable that Vale are still involved in all three cup competition by mid-November. As one wag put it, “the quadruple is still on!” Unfortunately, due to lack of TV coverage and the poor prize pot, the League Cup hasn’t raised millions for the club but nevertheless it’s still an impressive achievement. Conversely, despite its much maligned status the Football League Trophy offers decent prize money for each win (and the chance of a Wembley final) while the FA Cup offers the chance of a big club if Vale can see off Stevenage. With Vale’s League form wobbly, the side’s excellent cup performances have been a welcome bonus. Rating: A
- The purchase of a reliable first choice goalkeeper for the first time since Scott Brown’s departure. I would argue that a decent keeper would have been top of most fans’ summer wishlists and in Connor Ripley, the club have arguably secured the best League One keeper that they could. He’s not infallible (that’s why he plays in League One) but he’s added a presence at the back and his penalty record is a bonus. Rating: A
- A style of play which is pleasing to the eye. The addition of the likes of Arblaster, Devine and Ethan Chislett has seen the Valiants play some lovely football at times this campaign. The end product may be lacking (more on that later) but the build-up play at times has been sublime. Rating: B
Failures
Now it’s time to balance out those wins with the gripes which many fans have had this season. Starting with the obvious one…
Vale brought back James Wilson to boost their forward ranks
- The lack of a cutting edge upfront. By early August, the alarm bells among fans were sounding loud and clear. Despite the addition of some quality players in other positions, Vale had just Ellis Harrison as a recognised striker as the new season approached. The re-signing of James Wilson and loan addition of Josh Thomas swiftly followed but even then, Vale were stretched upfront. This was in evidence as injuries hit and Andy Crosby was forced to play some games without a recognised central forward. Vale eventually brought in Ryan Loft and Uche Ikpeazu (with Harrison departing) but with the new pair short of fitness and Wilson getting injured, the Valiants still remain short of a reliable, fit central forward. A fit Ikpeazu may turn out to be that player but surely Vale will need to add cover and competition in the January transfer window? Rating: D
- A plethora of injuries. It’s always difficult to know if clubs are unlucky or at fault when injuries start to hit. Is it down to recruitment of injury-prone players, poor training facilities, medical staff or are injuries simply part and parcel of the game. However, it is possibly worth arguing that some of Vale’s recruitment has been eyebrow raising. Dan Jones, who appears to be a lovely bloke, has had two injury-hit seasons with the club – was a fresh two-year deal sensible? James Wilson is a class above when fit – but could Vale really rely on such an injury-prone forward to not break down again? Conor Grant, who has had lengthy spells out at previous clubs was always a gamble as the club’s only naturally left-footed wingback. Rating: D
- A poor run of League form. In some respects, Andy Crosby, while deserving credit for the cup runs, should be grateful that they happened. They have papered over cracks and diverted some attention from what is currently woeful League One form. Take away those cup games and Vale’s last win was back in mid-September. Take away those cup games and Vale have scored two goals in their last seven games. Take away the cup games and Vale’s record is two draws and five losses. Let’s hope the Valiants can carry some of that cup form into the League… Rating: D