[Ale and the Vale Podcast]

Interesting listen again today. I liked the discussion around the squad cap and youth development in years to come. Made me think of this report from a couple of years back around the improvements made in the vale academy in recent years.

https://www.port-vale.co.uk/news/2019/july/academy-productivity/

I know this is from 2019, but definitely seems even pre Carol, there is good work going on, that hopefully produce more players to the 1st team, if they don't get poached by the higher Cat academies.

[Ale and the Vale Podcast]

Thought Johnny was harsh with his marks for Hurst and let Amoo off lightly, didn't think there was much to choose between them yesterday. 

I would add that when Rodney moved to the left, I think that showed how a 433 should be played with the wide men tucking in close to the striker.  I suppose that's what you get by playing a forward in that position not Hurst who is essentially a left midfielder pushed forward. 

[Ale and the Vale Podcast]

Taking your point about the dark arts on board lads and rewatching their penalty I'm 100% convinced if Conlon spins around, holds his ankle and squeals when he makes contact with Hannat we would have been talking about a red card for Luke instead of a Cambridge penalty. That's what would other teams would have done.

[Ale and the Vale Podcast]

Good episode today I thought, especially the debate about ifollow and the income for the club's involved.  Also interesting discussing ways to raise funds for the club. Some ideas I think would work, like shirt of the back being taken online. Would be ideal if it was an option when buying your match day pass/entering your pass number. Unfortunately can't see ifollow being able to manage to anything that complicated.