Mark Grew has praised the attitude and application of the Port Vale squad following their recent upturn in results.

The Valiants have clocked up three wins and a draw in their last four outings despite being hindered with injuries, and assistant manager Grew says the players deserve full credit for getting on with the job.

"We've had plenty of injuries and others have had to do jobs in different positions.

"Marc Richards has been playing with an ankle knock but he keeps putting himself through the pain barrier and the same goes for Rob Taylor and it's a great attitude to have.

"Doug Loft's done brilliantly for us. He's played all over midfield, at left-back and then at right-back on Saturday but he's just got on with it and done well. It's great for the team when players play like that."

And Grew spoke further about the performances of stand-in full-back Doug Loft.

"The best thing about Lofty is that he doesn't look out of place. He's a player that likes to get on the ball and that gives us something extra because he'll get forward.

"Both of our goals against Gillingham came from his crosses. He put some quality balls in but he gets up there to be in the positions to put them in, but, most of all, he's defended well and he hasn't looked out of place."

Even with a lengthy list of absentees, Grew says he is pleased with the strength and depth of the squad.

"We've made a couple of new additions and players will be coming back soon so we've got plenty in there. It was good to turn around on Saturday and see some quality on the bench.

"Chris (Shuker) and Marshy (Paul Marshall) have looked good in training. They've been training with us for a bit and look fit and sharp.

"Shukes has played at the top level and he's a clever player who can find space and he'll be an asset. The same goes for Marshy. He's looking in good shape and has got a great left foot so both add to what we've got."

But with another 16 fixtures to play including eight in March, Grew says he and manager Micky Adams haven't ruled out the possibility of further strengthening the resources.

"We're quite happy with what we've got at the moment. We've given some of the lads chances and they've done well and we've got a few players coming back but that doesn't stop us looking.

"We've got a lot of games left. It's a very busy period with some hard games and it takes a lot to get through it."