Here’s a round-up of the latest Football League retained lists which has seen several former Vale players released…
Northampton Town – James Wilson released
Northampton Town – James Wilson releasedFormer Port Vale forward James Wilson has been released after a single season at League One side Northampton Town. The striker failed to score and didn’t make a start in the League during his stay at Sixfields. Wilson was one of the heroes of Port Vale’s 2022 promotion and scored in the play-off final win at Wembley stadium.
Barrow – Theo Vassell released
Barrow – Theo Vassell releasedFormer Port Vale defender Theo Vassell is one of a number of players released by League Two side Barrow. The 28 year-old made 36 appearances for Barrow in all competitions, scoring six times. Vassell spent a solitary season at Vale Park back in 2018-19 when he made 22 appearances in a Vale shirt.
Cheltenham Town – Tom Pett released
Cheltenham Town – Tom Pett releasedVeteran midfielder Tom Pett has been given a free transfer by Cheltenham Town. Pett had spent the latter period of last season on loan at National League side Oldham Athletic. Pett was the Vale skipper for the 2022 play-off final win over Mansfield Town back in 2022 and made 83 appearances for the Valiants.
Tranmere Rovers – Brad Walker in discussions
Tranmere Rovers – Brad Walker in discussionsFormer Vale midfielder Brad Walker is reported to be one of several Tranmere players in “discussions” over a new deal. Walker spent two years at Vale Park before moving to Tranmere. He has made 47 appearances for Rovers who are in the interim charge of former Vale boss Andy Crosby.
Grimsby Town – Pyke and Wilson released
Grimsby Town – Pyke and Wilson releasedFormer Port Vale loanee forwards Rekeil Pyke and Donovan Wilson have both been released by League Two Grimsby Town. The pair are two of six players to leave the club at the end of the season. Former Vale defender Lewis Cass remains under contract at Town.
AFC Fylde – Gavin Massey released
AFC Fylde – Gavin Massey releasedDropping into the non-league, relegated National League side AFC Fylde have released former Vale player Gavin Massey. The former Wigan Athletic man made 98 appearances for the Valiants between 2022 and 2024.
Morecambe – Jordan Slew released
Morecambe – Jordan Slew releasedFormer Port Vale striker Jordan Slew is one of several players released by League Two side Morecambe. Slew spent a period on loan with the Valiants during the 2014-15 season, scoring twice in nine appearances.
Even Northampton town have seen that Wilson is a joke getting footballers money but doing nothing on the pitch playing under the likes of giggs and Beckhams Paul scholes and nothing rubbed off that just tells you
DM obviously does not like Chislet even though he’s our most effective midfielder. Nathan Smith; another top performer seems out of DMs circle. Both these players are regularly dropped or subbed early to be replaced by DMs pals.
Ethan Chislett had a great season for us in 2023-24 and was in double figures for goals in a side relegated from League 1. In a Darren Moore side I would guess he would be seen as not physical enough and too creative and attack minded to start games. We’re likely to be less expansive next season against Bolton, Huddersfield and Barnsley. Three centre backs, wing backs who are full backs and midfielders who get stuck in. If we don’t hold on to Tolaj it could be tough going.
I do think that MJ’s are a bit harsh. I’m very much of the opinion that if he was not so prone to repetitive injuries then James Wilson would be playing at a reasonable. He has the skill to perform well but sadly injuries will mean that he gets contracts. Good luck th9ugh James.