Neil Aspin welcomed Jon McCarthy back to Vale Park on Thursday as the former Valiants player takes up the role of fitness coach.
Having managed in the Vanarama National League last season with Chester, McCarthy brings added experience to Vale’s backroom staff and that is something Aspin believes to be crucial.
“Everybody who supports Port Vale will know Jon McCarthy, but it’s not a case of a job for the boys,” said Aspin.
“We’ve brought him in because he’s well qualified to do the job that I want him to do, to deal with the fitness of the players and to be another coach as well.
“It’s good to bring in somebody who’s got a lot of experience in football, but he’s got a degree in Sports Science so he can combine the two.”
McCarthy will join up with the squad before Saturday’s home clash with Barnet in Sky Bet League Two, and Aspin is looking forward to seeing what influence he has.
Speaking more about the role McCarthy will play, the manager said: “He will be in charge of the fitness of our players and that’s obviously an important part of any football club.
“But he will be involved in more aspects, particularly in terms of players who are perhaps not playing or not in the squad.
“Also, depending on the longevity of myself and other people, we feel that because of the work he’s done at Chester including community work, he’s got a lot to offer.
“Like he was as a player, he’s hard-working, loyal and a good addition to the staff here at Port Vale.”