It has been a busy transfer window for the Valiants as they look to bounce back from last season’s disappointing relegation from League One.
Manager Darren Moore has been backed financially by owners Carol and Kevin Shanahan as he reshaped his squad ready for the 2024-25 League Two season. Here’s a review of some of the key changes.
Departures
After a hugely underwhelming League One campaign, the options at the end of the season were limited as many of Vale’s squad were still under contract. This seemingly limited Moore’s ability to reshape his squad. Nevertheless, the Vale manager has managed to ship six players out.
With just a handful of senior players no longer under contract, the Valiants released just three senior players in James Wilson, Gavin Massey and Jayson Leutwiler. Wilson has now been snapped up by League One Northampton Town. However, the Vale also saw striker Uche Ikpeazu (St Johnstone), defender Alex Iacovitti (St Mirren) and striker Ryan Loft (Cambridge Utd) depart, the latter two somewhat surprisingly for transfer fees. The transfers were widely welcomed by Port Vale supporter eager to see some new blood in their squad.
On deadline day itself another two players departed – veteran Funso Ojo went on loan to Shrewsbury Town while teenager Baylee Dipepa moved to Southampton for what is believed to be a club record fee.
Additions
The priority for Moore was to address the shortcomings from last season. Vale’s attack was much criticised last season and money has been spent to address the issue. Fees have been paid for experienced targetman Jayden Stockley, non-league talent Lorent Tolaj and Irishman Ruari Paton, who has already been on target two times this season. The Valiants’ frontline now looks far more potent than the previous season.
Vale have also looked to boost the supply-line to the strikers. Ronan Curtis is a proven talent, while Diamond Edwards and Benicio have less experience but have much promise. Edwards took just five minutes to get off the mark on his senior debut earlier this season.
The defence was also much criticised at times last season and this has also been revamped. The headline move was the return of much-admired left-sided defender Connor Hall from Colchester United. However, experienced centre-half Ben Heneghan plus wingbacks Sam Hart and Kyle John have also been added to the Vale squad.
In terms of the midfield, the biggest eyebrow raising move was the addition of former Sheff Wed man George Byers, seen by many as a Championship quality player. Byers was persuaded to link up with his former manager Moore. Ryan Croasdale, a combative defensive midfielder, also looks to be a valuable addition to the ranks.
There was also a late flurry of loan moves with Rico Richards, Brandon Cover and Antwoine Hackford all boosting the Vale ranks.
Finally, several players who have not left Vale Park have also given the club a boost. Many expected that bids could be tabled for goalkeeper Connor Ripley, playmaker Ethan Chislett and captain Ben Garrity but all three remain at the club, which is a huge boost for the Vale’s promotion prospects. Garrity has recently agreed a new contract extension which ties him to the club until the summer of 2026.
Betting Odds
Given their summer deals, Port Vale’s odds for promotion have improved significantly since the end of last season. Initially considered outsiders for a top-six finish, their consistent performances have seen bookmakers shorten their odds. However, they remain underdogs compared to some of the League’s bigger teams, making them an intriguing option for those looking to back a dark horse.
For individual matches, Port Vale has often been seen as a value bet, particularly in home games where their form has been strong. The upcoming fixtures against teams like Chesterfield and MK Dons will be key in determining whether they can maintain this momentum and continue to defy expectations. You can check the latest odds at Twin’s sports betting section.
Summary
So, it’s fair to say it’s been a very busy summer at Vale Park and it’s fair play to the club who said they would work to address the failings of the previous season. Expectations are high at the club and a promotion challenge is expected by many supporters. However, with such a huge turnaround of players it may take a little while for the squad to gel and fans may have to be patient at the start of the season.
Vale have already suffered a few blips – popular wingback Mitch Clark has been ruled out through injury while George Byers is still short of match fitness after missing much of the pre-season campaign. With some players still working their way to peak fitness, there’s not yet been an opportunity for a settled starting eleven.
Should the new signings work, the team should be aiming for a play-off spot as a minimum. There is squad depth, proven quality and a depth of options available for the Valiants. A season is a marathon and such depth should serve the Vale well as other rivals are hit by injuries and suspensions.
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