Midfielder Sam Foley believes the next two games could be a defining point in Port Vale’s season.
The 29-year-old played 86 minutes as the Valiants lost 1-0 to Coventry City on Boxing Day.
Rob Page’s side now have back to back home matches against Bury and Swindon Town coming up and Foley thinks they could be pivotal.
He told the press: “They’re huge, they’re massive games. This could be a defining point of the season.
“Our home form has been very good this season so going back to vale Park we’re going to try and get maximum points.”
James Maddison got the only goal for Tony Mowbray’s side at the Ricoh Arena on Saturday and while Foley was disappointed with the loss he said there are plenty of positives to take from the performance.
“I think everyone’s disappointed,” he commented. “In the dressing room everyone’s down but there’s plenty of positives to take from it.
“We’ve matched a team that’s right up there at the top end of the table for most of the game.
“First half I thought we were the better side, we really imposed ourselves and were unlucky with the final result.”
Anthony Grant picked up his tenth booking of the season against the Sky Blues meaning he faces a suspension.
Having played alongside the former Crewe man on a regular basis this term Foley knows how much of a loss his teammate will be.
However, he thinks it gives someone else an opportunity to step up and be counted.
He added: “Like I’ve said in the past it’s going to give opportunities for other players to come in and impose themselves and stake their claim.”