Opinion: Brady looks to adopt the sensible approach by strengthening spine

Rob Fielding thinks the first three Port Vale summer signings show a practical approach in improving Vale’s defensive capabilities.

Rob Fielding writes…

It was Sir Alex Ferguson who once quipped “Attack wins you games, defence wins you titles.” Brian Clough added “All great teams are built on clean sheets” Both are a nod to the fact that every successful team needs solid foundations and a solid spine.

I think that approach has been shown by Jon Brady with his first three summer signings. Firstly, we have what appears to be a long-term goalkeeping signing, something the club has called out for for many years. Jackson Smith is 24 and has signed a three year deal. If it works that solves the often problematic goalkeeping solution.

Now to the next part of the spine – the central defence. Jasper Moon is another in his mid-twenties, ticking the box that Brady mentioned last season in having the potential to improve. Moon seems a solid squad addition and given the paucity of central defenders last season (Darren Moore started with just four for three positions) the addition of Moon strengthens the defensive options available for Brady.

The first signing is that of Matthew Craig – a young, tenacious, ball-winning midfielder, who, at 23, should be champing at the bit to secure some stability and regular starts after a career being shunted off on loan.

Those three signings should all strengthen Vale’s ability to defend during games and all three show Brady’s willingness to strengthen the Vale spine. It’s a welcome and sensible approach…

Those three signings should all strengthen Vale’s ability to defend during games and all three show Brady’s willingness to strengthen the Vale spine. It’s a welcome and sensible approach. I know some fans are crying out for forward additions – and we certainly need them – but firstly these are more tricky to get over the line and secondly there’s plenty of time still left to get them. Yes, we need to create more chances and yes we need to score more goals. However, it’s a long window. There’s still time to add in some (hopefully) quality forwards and other positions but I’ve no problem with Brady adding in other, arguably less glamorous signings first. The manager seems to be looking at setting up solid foundations first, before adding his other additions.

Now, an important disclaimer. I’ve written numerous pieces in the past commenting that Port Vale summer business has looked good. And on many times I’ve been wrong. So, it’s worth adding that now is not the time to get carried away. The only way to judge these signings is to see them in competitive games. Brian Clough had another great quote about rushing to judgement quipping “We had a good team on paper. Unfortunately, the game was played on grass.” So, for now, the jury remains out on the value of the signings.

Having said that – if Brady has followed Ferguson’s and Clough’s advice in shoring up the defensive spine of the side first, then he’s no chosen bad managers to copy! Let’s hope it pays off.