Winger plays his first game since last season

Vale make the relatively short trip to Wrexham this afternoon for a game in which Rob Taylor will finally get some game time after being out with an Achilles injury since last season.

Mark Grew knows the important of players taking part in games to build up their fitness and says he can’t wait for the winger to be available for first team action once again.

He said: “Rob is progressing really well at the moment. He has got two weeks training under his belt. This game against Wrexham gives him an opportunity to prove his fitness.

“He did a little bit last week but he needs a ninety minutes and the sooner Rob gets back to one hundred per cent fitness the better for the squad.

“Everybody knows with his pace and his crossing ability it will be an added bonus to have him back in the squad – it will be like having a new player.

“Joe Davis needs a game and he will be in the side as well and it is vital these players get minutes under their belts and it will be nice to get Rob Taylor fully fit so that he comes back into the squad.

The game will give an opportunity to several players who have had to be patient so far, sitting on the bench during first team games. It’s a chance for them also to get the chance to actually play in a game.

Grew said: “It’s not nice sitting on the bench, but the whole squad is pulling together. When we scored on Saturday they all jumped up and were delighted for the lads.

“They realised just as much as the staff that it was a big result for us on Saturday and to get seven points on the board at this stage of the season is very pleasing.”