Off the back of three straight league defeats, Port Vale defender Leon Legge believes it is now time for the players to start taking responsibility for their performances.
Having had such an impressive September, Port Vale headed into this month four games unbeaten which included that derby day win over Crewe Alexandra.
Since the home draw with Exeter City toward the end of last month, Neil Aspin's side are yet to pick up a point in the league in October, following defeats to MK Dons, Grimsby Town and league leaders Lincoln City.
With the away trip to Oldham Athletic just around the corner, centre-back Leon Legge now believes it is time for the players to regroup and take responsibility for their recent form.
He said: "We're the ones out there on the pitch - there's only so much a manager can do.
"Once we cross that white line it's down to the eleven that are on the pitch.
"The last couple of games we've conceded in the first couple of minutes which hasn't helped us. We have to sort that out - we have to start well."
Vale host Middlesbrough Under-21s this evening in the Checkatrade Trophy and will be looking to build on their opening game win over Burton Albion last Tuesday.
Ricky Miller's second-half strike was enough to seal the win for Aspin's side last time out and Leon believes the competition can play an important part in rediscovering Vale's league form.
The defender has expressed the importance of the fans ahead of the cup tie and claims they don't realise just how important they are for Vale's performance.
He said: "We just need the backing. I've had this conversation a load of times with a few people and I don't think the fans realise how much of an influence they can have on the game.
"I can see how passionate the Vale fans are and when it's buzzing at home or you get a chance, it can be very loud within the stadium.
"It really does help and that's what we need right now."