Port Vale’s Sam Hart Faces Extended Injury Layoff

Port Vale manager Darren Moore has announced that defender Sam Hart will be sidelined for a significant period due to injury. This development poses a substantial challenge for the Valiants, particularly given the limited cover available in the full-back and wingback positions.

Kyle John is anticipated to step into Hart’s role, while promising young player Jack Shorrock is also in the mix. However, both John and Shorrock possess minimal experience, with each having participated in only a few League matches. Additionally, James Plant, who recently showcased his abilities as a left-back in the Football League Trophy game, is another option, despite his relative inexperience.

Among the more seasoned candidates, Conor Grant, who played as a left wingback last season, remains with the squad but has yet to see action this season. Connor Hall and the currently unused Dan Jones may also be considered, although both are generally regarded as natural left-sided centre-halves.

Following Vale’s match in the Football League Trophy against Wolves U21, Moore provided an update, stating, “Sam Hart is going to be out for a little bit of time. I will probably be able to give you more of an update on Thursday but we think he is going to be out for some considerable time.”

Hart’s performance, since joining the club as part of the summer signings, has drawn positive remarks, making his absence particularly detrimental to the team. The left side of the defense has been a challenging area for the Valiants in recent seasons, with various players such as Mal Benning, Chris Hussey, Dan Jones, Thierry Small, Conor Grant, Jack Shorrock, James Plant, Kyle John, and Hart having filled that position with mixed results.