Port Vale

With two games already done, Nathan Smith is focused on Saturday's Sky Bet League Two fixture against Wycombe Wanderers.

The Valiants have already faced Derby County and West Bromwich Albion at Vale Park in pre-season, but this weekend's clash will be the first competitive home game of 2017/18.

A healthy contingent of Valiants supporters made the trip to Crawley Town on the opening day and that was replicated at Leeds United on Wednesday. Smith is hopeful of a positive result for them.

Speaking about the fans after the game at Elland Road, Smith said: "They were very loud at times and it's great to have that support. We have got to say thank you for travelling down, apologise for the result and hope we can turn it around on Saturday."

On a personal note, the defender is determined to play a key part in a Vale shirt this season. After featuring regularly last term, the academy graduate is relishing the remainder of the campaign.

He said: "This year I'm a lot more confident and I've got different goals, but most importantly we have to try and get points for the team and do what we need to do this season."

Summer signing Antony Kay has partnered Smith in the heart of Vale's back line so far and it has looked effective. The youngster has already praised the impact of the former Bury man.

He said: "I'm enjoying playing with Antony, he's very vocal during the games and during training - he has been there and done it.

On Saturday's game, he added: "Being back at Vale Park for the first time this season, it's one of them where we need to set off on the right foot and hopefully get a win."