Vale’s number one said he is ready for the new season to begin, but is aware their opening fixtures are the “toughest” in the league.

Brown and the squad feel prepared for the new campaign to get underway after a hardworking and productive summer has left them feeling fit, strong and excited to take to the field.

A key reason for the positivity going into the new season are the new additions to the squad, with Brown pleased with his new teammate, Jonny Maddison, who he believes has a good mindset and the attributes to provide strong competition.

The new owners, Kevin and Carol Shanahan, have also had a huge impact on the team, as they have brought about a change in mindset, with the ‘New Era’ bringing hope back to Vale Park, and with changes to little things meaning a lot to the boys and have boosted moral after a difficult season.

He said: “It’s been a long, exciting summer, with a lot of new players and a lot of changes around the club.

“We’re all ready to go and looking forward to the game.

“We’ve got a lot to thank the owners for, they’ve sacrificed a lot for us, and even this week, they’ve sacrificed some more for us, so we’re really grateful for everything they’ve done.

“It’s up to us now to repay them on the pitch and throughout the season.”

The desire to repay the new owners can be felt throughout the squad as everyone is thankful for what they have done and how they have changed the atmosphere of the club.

The personalities of the Shanahan’s have lifted the spirits of those around the squad, with them always looking to help out in any way they are able to with all of the players and staff.

The buzz around the club has made the squad eager to get the season started and, although they know it’s a challenging opening, with games against Colchester United, Northampton Town and Burton Albion, they are ready.

He said: “They [the Shanahan’s] just want to help you as much as they possibly can, so from our side there certainly can’t be any excuses, as there possibly were a few last year.

“I think we’ve got the toughest opening that we could possibly have had, certainly the toughest out of anybody in the league.

“To go there [Colchester] and get anything tomorrow, we’re going to have to put in a really good display.

“After 10 games I think we’ll know where we’re going to be and what we need to improve on, so [I’m] really looking forward to it.”