Tom Pope could return to starting XI when Port Vale host Macclesfield

Posted Friday, April 26, 2019 by PA

Port Vale boss John Askey could opt to recall leading scorer Tom Pope to his starting line-up for the club’s final home game of the season against Macclesfield.

Pope dropped to the bench for Monday’s 1-1 draw at MK Dons, where Danny Elliott was given a first start in his place, but the 33-year-old will hope to return against the Silkmen.

Manny Oyeleke has missed the last three games with a calf problem while Cristian Montano limped off late on against MK Dons, and it remains to be seen if they will be fit for this weekend.

With Vale’s League Two future now secure, Askey may take the chance to look at other fringe players, including teenage midfielder Mike Calveley who was recently recalled from a loan spell at Nuneaton Borough.

Macclesfield will be hoping captain Nathan Cameron and James Pearson will be fit for action as Sol Campbell’s men continue their fight against relegation.

The two defenders sat out Monday’s goalless home draw with Newport after undergoing late fitness tests.

Ben Stephens also missed the Exiles clash after picking up an injury in the 3-1 defeat to Northampton on Good Friday, while goalkeeper Rhys Taylor has not played since November.

The Silkmen are two points above the drop zone heading into the final two games of the season.