Ahead of tomorrow’s big clash against local rivals Crewe Alexandra, Vale manager Micky Adams has admitted that both teams’ bad form will mean nothing once the whistle is blown at Gresty Road.
With this in mind, he believes all of his players know how important the game is and will be up for the battle that awaits them.
However, Adams feels that it’s not a do or die match as previously stated in the press, but he will make sure the team are ready for it.
Talking ahead of the derby clash, Adams said: “We’re all looking forward to the game, but it’s not something we’re lying awake at night worrying about the consequences of losing.
“That’s because I’m fully focused getting the boys ready for a local derby where form goes out the window.
“It’s about eleven brave lads on the day, embracing the game and the fact we’ve got a fantastic support, who I’m sure will be right behind us.
“We have to go out there, attack the game and be nice and positive like we always are.
“Both teams and both sets of players will be fully aware of the importance of the game and what it means to both sets of supporters.
“But once my players cross that white line, they have to make the right decisions and be confident in what they’re doing.
“We also need to concentrate fully, which has been a major problem for us, and go out to try and win a game of football. We’ll all feel a bit better about each other if we do.”
He feels that the tie could be at the wrong time of the season for both teams, but believes that whoever can get the better out of it will be in a good place to kick-start their season.
He explained: “In some respects, would Crewe have wanted Port Vale in their run of form? Probably not, and would we have wanted Crewe away from home on our current run? Probably not.
“So it’s a game that’s probably mistimed, but hopefully we’ll take all three points and feel better about ourselves.”
Watch the full interview with Micky Adams later today