Football Season Guide

There is a renewed sense of optimism at Vale Park following the takeover of Carol and Kevin Shanahan in May. Their purchase from the despised Norman Smurthwaite has seen a huge take-up in season tickets as fans return to Vale Park with hopes of better times around the corner. They have endured three years of struggle, including successive seasons flirting with relegation from the Football League. John Askey inherited the task of keeping the Valiants heads above water in February and they finished eight points clear of the drop zone. It was enough for the new owners to offer him a new deal this summer and he has been busy strengthening his squad in the summer. Strikers Mark Cullen and Richie Bennett have arrived to take some of the pressure off talisman Tom Pope whilst winger David Amoo will be hoping to find some more consistency after joining from Cambridge United. Another positive move has seen full-back Adam Crookes loan from Nottingham Forest made permanent. The only real loss is that of midfielder Luke Hannatt, who opted for a switch to Cambridge United. Striker Ricky Miller’s departure after a troubled year comes as little surprise. Askey will be hoping to use the forthcoming season to build his own side and try and recreate the unlikely success he had at Macclesfield Town.