Former Valiants round-up – Conlon released, Rodney promoted

This is a round-up of the latest news involving some former Valiants and covers the 2025-26 season.

Clutch of former Valiants involved in play-offs

There are a couple of familiar faces in the Football League play-offs. Former Vale loanee Will Swan is part of the Bradford City squad taking on Bolton Wanderers in League One. Meanwhile, goalkeeper Ryan Boot is part of the Chesterfield squad doing battle in League Two. If you want to check the betting status for the play-offs you may want to get the odds of the match from our friends at Bet Nero.

Former Port Vale duo depart Latics

Former Vale captain Tom Conlon and Wembley play-off final scorer Kian Harratt are among eight players to be released by League Two side Oldham Athletic. Conlon, a former player of the year at Vale Park, played 183 times for the Valiants managed 68 appearances for Oldham.

Rodney’s Rochdale to play Vale

Meanwhile, former Vale striker Devante Rodney will take on Port Vale next season after his Rochdale side were promoted back to the Football League in dramatic fashion. After losing out on automatic promotion after a last-gasp York City goal, Dale looked to be losing the play-off final against Boreham Wood. However, a last-ditch equaliser saw Rochdale force extra-time before winning the penalty shootout. The striker scored thirteen times in 61 appearances for the Valiants.

Stone signs on at Truro as Charsley departs

Former Valiants goalkeeper Aidan Stone has agreed a new deal at Truro City despite their relegation from the National League. The 26 year-old, who won promotion with the Vale back in 2022 joined the Cornish side in August 2025. He has made 37 appearances for the Tinners. Meanwhile, Truro manager John Askey, a former Vale manager, has released Harry Charsley who had a brief spell with the Vale in 2022.

Benning departs Shrewsbury Town

Yet another Vale promotion winner, wingback Mal Benning has been released by League Two side Shrewsbury Town. Benning is one of ten players to be released. However, another former Valiant, striker George Lloyd has agreed a new deal while two more former Valiants – Tom Sang and Tom Anderson remain under contract although the latter has been transfer listed.

Vale duo released as Rotherham clear the decks

Relegated Rotherham United have released eleven players including former Vale duo Jordan Hugill and loanee Zak Jules. After his Vale form earned a move to the Championship, Hugill earned the Valiants a significant sell-on fee when he was sold by Preston North End to West Ham for a reported £10m fee. Jules had a less illustrious time making just two appearances while on loan.