See Who Has Been Offered a Deal By Vale

Port Vale are delighted to announce that five of the club’s eight second year scholars have been offered professional contracts.

Defender Lewis Bergin, midfielders Chekaine Steele, Billy Reeves, Omar Haughton and striker Jonathon Kapend have all been rewarded with deals following their impressive performances at Academy level.

The quintet have also been regulars for the Valiants’ reserves, who this season won the Final Third Development League West Division.

Chairman Norman Smurthwaite commented: “The club is really pleased with the success of this crop of youngsters.

“We have been determined to increase the amount of players graduating from the Academy and being offered deals and to have five of eight players doing so this year is a fantastic return and certainly fits in with our vision.

“I’m committed to investing in youth and to provide a platform for more to follow in the coming years. I’d also like to put on record my thanks to Mick Ede for his efforts.”

Manager Rob Page added: “I’d like to congratulate Lewis, Chekaine, Billy, Omar and Jonathon on earning contracts.

“Whenever I have seen them play, I have been very impressed and their success is testament to the hard work of Sevvy Aslam, Mick Ede and Dean Glover as well.”

Academy Manager Sevvy Aslam said: “After the ups and downs of the past few years and due to the stability and vision of the club I’m absolutely delighted that the chairman and manager have committed to offering these players contracts.

“They are very well deserved and in my opinion these players have proven that they are more than capable of developing further and becoming first team players at Vale Park.”