The Vale Youth team are preparing for a real test of their ability when they face Norwich City at Vale Park this Wednesday in the 3rd round of the FA Youth Cup.
The Canaries’ record in the competition in recent years is quite impressive. They lifted the trophy by beating Spurs in the final in 2013 and have reached the quarter finals twice in the last three years.
“I think that we have a slight advantage being at home,” said Academy PDP Lead Coach Mick Ede “
"Although Norwich are not having the best of seasons in the U18 Premier League, we cannot underestimate the task that we face. “They are a strong team and we have to be at our best if we want to progress in the competition.”
Vale have earned their place in round 3 with convincing home victories in each of the previous two rounds, scoring 9 goals in the process. However, a spate of recent injuries might make it difficult for Mick to field his strongest team against the Canaries and this could pave the way for 15-year-old striker Nelson Agho to feature in the game. Nelson recently made his senior debut in the Checkatrade Trophy game at Walsall to claim the record as the youngest ever player to appear for the first team.
“I can’t speculate on team selection at the moment.” Added Mick.
“It really depends on players recovering from injury. In any case we hope that the Vale supporters turn out in good numbers and give the lads good vocal backing.
"That support might just be the little extra that helps to make the difference on the night.”
The game kicks off at 7:00pm at Vale Park on Wednesday 12 December and admission to the Lorne Street stand is £3 (no concessions) pay on the gate. Come along and help to cheer the lads onto victory.