Luke Hannant looks ahead to Saturday's game against Lincoln City

Luke Hannant looks ahead to Saturday's game against Lincoln City

Luke Hannant says Vale must cut out unnecessary fouls, particularly around the penalty area, if the team are to beat Lincoln City on Saturday.

The Valiants welcome the promotion chasing Imps to Vale Park on Saturday, with Aspin's side looking to bounce back from the 2-1 defeat to Crawley Town last week.

But Hannant believes the squad know Lincoln's playing style, and how The Valiants can prevent back-to-back defeats. 

"I've played against them before, and they just pose a physical threat.

"The main threat is the big lad up top, Reed. Set pieces and throw-ins, they just look to launch them into the box.

"If we can minimise free-kicks, and throw-ins around the box, then we should be alright."

The midfielder also believes the Vale fans will play a crucial part in the game at the weekend, and has no doubt they will get behind the team throughout the game.

Lincoln City are currently unbeaten in six league games, and are fresh off a Checktrade Trophy final win at Wembley, and will be full of confidence ahead of the game at Vale Park.

Going into the game Hannant says the atmosphere around the ground will be a big boost for the squad, and hopes they can replicate the noise they created at Crewe, as the Valiants look to gain a crucial win which would steer them closer to safety. 

"It will be nice to play with a good atmosphere.

"Our supporters were great when we went away to Crewe, they were louder than the Crewe fans.

"On Saturday, I've got no doubt that the crowd will get behind us like they do every home game."

Hannant also took time to reflect on his personal experiences since joining Vale in January.

The midfielder was signed by Aspin from Gateshead, and Hannant says he has thoroughly enjoyed his time at the club since arriving.

"I think I've settled in well.

"It's nice to be given an opportunity, and the gaffer has put his trust in me, and I hope I have repaid it.

"I've come into a team where the lads have been very welcoming, and with the experienced player's we've got, hopefully we can get the few wins that we need to stay up."