Scott Burgess urges Port Vale to push on in the race for promotion, admitting it “would be stupid not to talk about it”.
The 22-year-old midfielder joined the Valiants in May 2019 following a series of loan spells away from Bury and has established himself as a regular feature in manager John Askey’s side.
It has been a much-improved season on and off the field for the club and Burgess is hopeful his performances can help lift the team into the coveted playoff places.
“If we win our games we can put ourselves in that position [Playoffs]. We have to just focus on ourselves, do what we can and take each game as it comes.
“At the start of the season I had to be a bit patient and work my way into the team, I felt like I’ve earned my chance. I’ve kicked on and put in a few good performances and the gaffer’s repaid me by continuing to play me.
“I feel like I’ve definitely learnt a lot, it’s a tough league so you have to adapt quickly. I’ve tried to improve as much as I can on the training pitch and hopefully that’s shown in my performances.”
Regarding Burgess’ contract situation going into next season, the Warrington-born midfielder admits it’s currently under discussion.
“It’s being sorted. I’d like to stay and I’ve really enjoyed myself this season. I’ve worked with the gaffer before at Macclesfield and he’s given me an opportunity here, I’m really grateful for that.”
With Manny Oyeleke and Jake Taylor both soon returning from spells on the sideline, Burgess is expecting to be kept on his toes.
“There’s a lot of competition in midfield places, we’ve got great options for the gaffer and with Manny and Jake coming back it only strengthens the team.
“We’ve all got different styles of play and we all bring something to the table, that can only benefit the team.”
Following Saturday’s 1-1 draw at home to Salford, Vale face back-to-back away trips to Northampton and Forest Green respectively.
Askey’s side are currently sitting in 10th spot, 14 points behind league leaders Swindon and three points behind 7th placed Cheltenham.
“I feel like we’ve done well in away games this season. It’s two games we believe we can go in and win.
“They are two teams that are doing really well and have put themselves in a similar position to us in going for promotion and the playoff places.
“Hopefully we can go there, play as well as we know we can and try and get a result.”