Defender Danny Woodards missed last season's 3-0 defeat at Vale Park due to injury but the former Chelsea trainee knows what our local derbies with our Staffordshire based rivals means to the club supporters.

Woodards is set to start this evening's game at centre-half, having replaced the injured George Abbey in that position against Yeovil. The versatile defender doesn't care too much where he plays, as long as he is selected and after claiming rave reviews for his flawless performance at the weekend there is no danger of him losing his place.

In the build up to the big game, Danny told Crewe Alex World: "I thought we looked good on Saturday and we looked like we were going to score every time we went forward. I think everyone can see the improvement we have made.

"I don't mind where I play and we had discussed the possibility of me playing centre-half and George playing at full-back. When George went down with his hamstring injury, I was prepared to step in and do my best for the team.

"I didn't play in the defeat at the end of last season, but I know what it means to the fans and everyone connected with the club. The lads have spoken about it and what it means to everyone in the dressing room.

"We know it will be a tough game because Port Vale have got a new manager and will be up for it. So we will be though, because we want another three points and keep moving up the table.

Danny added: "It is still tight in the table and we are not too far if we can go on and win another two or three games on the run."

For more from Danny Woodards and much much more on the build up to the Port Vale game click here for Crewe Alex World.