Eagles, was the deciding factor in Port Vale’s 1-0 win at Walsall which ensured that Vale’s survival hopes will go right down to the wire on Sunday. 

His thrilling goal, five minutes from time secured The Valiants all three points on Tuesday night as Smith applauded his effects on the team. 

Smith said: “He’s come in and improved the squad massively.

“His quality on the pitch has definitely shown. On Tuesday, he did it for us!

“He’s got us the three points and that’s what we needed to do.”

A man who the 21-year old has also recognised, is striker Dan Turner. The youngster has impressed over the weeks and Smith believes that his first goal in Port Vale colours is just around the corner.

“He’s come in and worked his socks off for us.

“He hasn’t quite got his goal yet, he had one disallowed but he’s come in and done brilliantly.

“I think he’s one of them that if he starts scoring, he can definitely make it to the top. He’s got everything he needs!

“All he needs now is a goal but they will definitely come.”

Looking back on Tuesday’s goal, Smith believes that there was a lot of emotion and frustration being let go in the celebrations as the Vale players express their delight.

“There’s been frustrating times where we have conceded late or we have not managed to grab a goal!

“Everyone was really happy to see us score. 

“It’s one of them where everyone was over the moon that we finally scored late on.”