Davis on Vale preparation

Steve Davis admits that his preparation for a local derby against Port Vale doesn’t particularly alter during the week. The Alex boss obviously appreciates how important a result is to the supporters but the preparation will be the same.

Steve has used the mini-break due to the International break to re-focus his squad on what will be an important month, starting with tomorrow’s local derby.

“Everyone here knows how important this game is to both sets of supporters. We haven’t given our fans much to shout about this season, so we are determined to put on a good performance for them against the Vale, ‘says Steve.

“We know what is at stake in terms of the bragging rights and we want our fans to enjoy the weekend and go into work on Monday morning with their chests puffed out.

“I know about the rivalry. It was within my own family last season with Joe at Port Vale. I haven’t had that this year with Joe moving to Leicester, but I want our fans to enjoy their Saturday night.

“This game doesn’t define our season and there is still a long way to go but it is always an exciting game to look forward to.

“In truth we don’t look at this game any differently. It is three points and we want them. We know about some of their players because they have been here, especially Byron (Moore) but we are thinking more about ourselves and what we need to do.

“I don’t know what team Micky will go with. We will have to wait and see how many ex-players are on the team-sheet when they come out tomorrow.

The boss added: “We have watched Vale and gone through one or two things but our focus has been more on what we are going to do.”