Knott's landing

Knott's landing

Billy remembers his first visit to Vale Park only too well

Billy Knott’s destiny was probably sealed years ago – he was living on Canvey Island and celebrating his 8th birthday when the local team knocked Vale out of the FA Cup back in 2000.

He didn’t travel to Burslem for that game, but in another coincidence, he made his Football League here at Vale Park in January 2012 when playing on loan for AFC Wimbledon.

The Dons won that game 2-1, but Billy’s only memory of that particular game was being clattered by one of Vale’s current squad.

He said: “All I can remember from the game is that Griff smashed me in the air and that is about it. I think we scored late on, but all I can remember is getting smashed by Griff.

“But it is great to be here, it is a big stadium and it was good to get training with the lads this morning. It was a good session and I can’t wait to get involved on Tuesday.

“I want to play games as much as I can and get involved with the lads and hopefully we can get up the table and see what we can do.

“I have met loads of nice people this morning and it is only my first day and hopefully we can push on and do well together.

“I am grateful for Micky Adams to take me and give me that chance and if it is not on Tuesday then hopefully it will be soon and I can show everyone what I can do.”