Gavin Gunning becomes Port Vale’s latest signing as Michael Brown’s first season as Vale manager begins in just over a week’s time.

After beginning his career as a youngster at Blackburn rovers, Gunning went on to have spells at Birmingham City, Dundee United and Rotherham United to name a few clubs, and comes with a wealth of experience under his belt.

The 26-year-old had been training with Vale for a few weeks before finally signing on a permanent deal, and has settled in well: “There was a bit of a wait but I am happy to sign at a big club like Port Vale. It is a good group of lads who have made me feel welcome, and I am happy to be here.”

Eager to kick on and build his career, Gunning has high expectations for his new club: “I just want to kick start my career again. I have had a tough couple of years, and I am in the best shape I have ever been in at the moment, so hopefully I can show it on the pitch.

“There is a good quality in the team and it would be disappointing if we weren’t to get promoted.”

However, the centre back is aware of the opposition they will face throughout the season: “But it is a tough league full of teams with bigger budgets than Port Vale.”

Gunning will carry on as he has been for the past few weeks, but now as an official Port Vale player. He and his teammates travel to Crawley Town come the first game of the season, and are looking forward to it:

“We are buzzing. It is going to be a tough game away from home on the first day of the season, but we are looking forward to it.”