Neil Aspin is expecting a tough match-up this weekend as his Port Vale side make the long journey South to Exeter City.
It will be the gaffer’s second game on the road as Vale travel to high-flying Exeter in hope of continuing their positive run.
As we approach Saturday’s clash, Aspin believes that a long journey shouldn’t be used an excuse as he prepares his team for the three-and a half hour trip.
“Obviously, managing Gateshead in the National League it’s a short trip to what we’ve had there”, joked Neil.
“We had 14 overnight stops at Gateshead so we always seemed to be travelling! On a few occasions, you’ll have a long trip so it’s up to the players to be professional. We’ll train tomorrow before we leave but it will be tough game anyway, no matter where it is.
“They’re a team that’s up at the top and it’ll be a testing game on Saturday.”
Neil has also heaped praise upon 19-year old James Gibbons, as he continues to heavily impress at right wing-back in recent games. The gaffer says he is pleased that the club can bring through some excellent local talent.
He said: “It’s great for any club who can bring through players through their academy.
“It’s always good for the supporters as well to see a local lad in their team. But, I don’t consider him as a young lad. I look at him as a player. He’s a player who deserves to be playing and I’m very happy with him.
“I love his attitude and his work-rate. A good thing about him is that he will only get better, he has been thrown in the deep end this year but he’s coming through really well.”
Another local lad is Tom Pope as he once again makes all the headlines. The gaffer says he knew a lot about “Popey” before he came to Vale as he expresses his delight for the target man.
“He’s somebody I was aware of when I came to the club”, said Aspin.
“Since I’ve got here, you couldn’t ask for anymore. He’s lead the line really well, he’s competed in the air, he’s good with his feet and he’s been scoring goals.
“You can’t ask for anymore from your centre forward, I just hope that he can continue.”