Despite starting the season in the heart of the Vale defence, Antony Kay has been utilised in a more advanced position since Neil Aspin’s arrival at the club.

The 35-year-old has been pushed forward into one of the holding midfield slots, but it is something that he’s used to having played their at times throughout his career.

“I’ve enjoyed it and I’ve played a lot of games in midfield so it’s natural for me,” said Kay on the change of role.

“As long as you’re in the starting eleven and you can help the team out then it’s great.”

Kay found out that he would be featuring in the midfield prior to the trip to Exeter City last month, and having helped Vale to a win in that game, he has been ever-present since.

“It wasn’t a big deal, the gaffer pulled me in and said that he wanted to play me there and look at what I was like,” he said.

“I obviously agreed to that. I’m not a selfish player, I’m more bothered about the team so if you can help them in any way then it’s to your benefit.”

Vale’s defensive record has improved over the last few weeks and Kay has been impressed with all of his teammates from the strikers down to the goalkeeper.

He also acknowledges how crucial it is to build solid relationships on the pitch, something which everyone has done in Kay’s view.

He said: “They’ve all been good and I think it helps that Ryan Boot has been excellent, he’s come in to the team and he’s been brilliant.

“For me personally, partnerships with the defence are particularly important if you can build consistent ones then that’s how you do well as a team.”