John Askey says that the club has definitely made an improvement on last season’s League Two campaign, but wants to prevent the club from falling backwards after a successful season.
Askey was speaking after Vale gained another point on the road at fellow play-off chasers Cheltenham Town on Saturday.
“From the start of the season we have always looked to try and improve, and if you take it a game at a time over the season, then we have improved.”
“If we continue this until the end of the season, we will be in the play-offs.
“It’s been a good season in regards to progress, but you’re always worried about falling back, but the players are confident and it showed on Saturday and I thought we should have got the three points.”
However, the Valiants manager isn’t shocked by his side’s progression from last season’s turbulent campaign.
“I haven’t been surprised, because I believe if you get them (the players) into a good working environment, then people will improve.”
“Scott Burgess is one who just by playing games and as he’s getting older and more used to league, you’re seeing him progress significantly.”
“James (Gibbons) when he first came in was a little bit rash in his tackling, I know he’s had a few bookings, but overall I think he is maturing.”
“The last thing you want to do in players like James is take away his aggression.”
The Vale boss also gave some positive news as there are no more injuries to add to the squad.
“There’s no more injuries, Christian Montano is back in training today.”
“Jake’s (Taylor) back today (after suffering from flu).”
“Everybody gets concerned now when anybody coughs or sneezes!”
And the club have been taking precautions following the global outbreak of Coronavirus.
“We got the doctors in on Wednesday to give us some advice.”
“It’s just about washing your hands really and not going into many populated areas.”
“What will be will be, there’s not really a great deal we can do about it.”
Askey also says that there is no issue with a lack of focus within the players and staff and that he’s not afraid to pull them aside should they not seem focused.
“You’re always looking whether it’s in training or in games, just making sure if you can see somebody who’s not quite with it.”
“Sometimes it’s a person who needs a kick up the backside or an arm round them.”
“I’m lucky with the staff I have got, we’ve got a lot of experience there.”
“It’s not only myself, it’s been a team from the start and I’m lucky to have the people that I’ve got working with me.”
Talks with players with short-term contracts are ongoing and Askey shed a bit of light on some players’ future at the club.
“Manny Oyeleke’s is here for another year and David (Amoo) has got until the end of the season.”
“Leon Legge has also agreed to sign on for another year.”
“It’s up to some of the players to show that they are worth a contract for next season.”
“We’re in a good position at the moment, and in regards to players, they seem to be happy with Port Vale as a football club.”