When John Askey was appointed manager of Port Vale back in February, many fringe players saw it as an opportunity to revitalise their Vale career and midfielder David Worrall was certainly one of those players to do so.

Worrall has been like a brand new signing since the gaffer reintroduced the tenacious midfielder back into the starting XI and even admits himself he's never felt fitter at the tender age of 28.

"Wozza" earned his first start under Askey away to Cheltenham Town and was unfortunate to have his first half goal chalked off for offside. The gaffer however could see the work rate and skill Worrall possesed and has started him in every game since. 

Having made such a vital contribution to the team since being reintroduced the starting line up, Worrall says his new found form is very much down to Askey who's helped him and coached him.

"I'm 28 and I'm still learning, he's getting the best out of me and I'm enjoying playing for him, working hard and there's a lot of lads in the same boat as me with that.

"We know we could achieve something under him. There's been quite a few changes with the gaffer and the way he wants us to play which has suited me a lot. I like to think my performances are good but it's my work rate for the team and the football club that has come out to be seen.

"I knew I would get another chance before the end of the season, whether that was with the old manager or a new one, I knew I'd get the chance because I was training well I just couldn't get my form in games. Finally it's come, probably at the right time in the middle of a relegation battle."

As he admits, Worrall's performances for the Vale couldn't have come at a better time and it's certainly helped Vale's push to secure their League Two status for another season.

The Valiants had a terrific month of results in March and it was topped off by the win away to Northampton Town. Worrall scored a vital equaliser just before the half which seemed spur the players on to bag all three points.

With safety near enough confirmed for the Vale, Askey still insists the Valiants must finish the season on a high and Worrall feels if they do and prepare right over the summer, there's potential for the club to go much further next season. 

"You never know. You know pre season will be tough under the gaffer and if Andy Davis is here you know it's going to be really tough!  He expects a high standard and makes sure you maintain it.

"As you can tell with all the gym we've been doing like the running, the warm ups, making sure they get the best out of us. The club in the last month has been going in the right direction.

"We're winning games and when you win football games other things get put to the back. Everyone thinks about winning games and there's an excitement around the club. We need to finish the season strong and keep that little buzz."