Port Vale vs Stevenage - Martin Paterson set to return for Port Vale

Port Vale are looking to bounce back following a recent drop in form when they begin their FA Cup campaign against Stevenage.

Bruno Ribeiro's side have won only one of their past five League One matches but summer signing Martin Paterson hands his side a timely boost as he returns following injury.

The 29-year-old former Northern Ireland forward has been sidelined for the past three weeks and has been resting up for this fixture for weeks. He went off injured during the 1-1 draw with Charlton on October 18 and was an unused substitute against Bolton last time out.

Vale have no suspension worries to contend with, while long-term casualty Sam Foley, who is likely to be sidelined until the new year with an ankle problem, misses out again.

Managerial advisor Glenn Roeder says Stevenage have no fresh injury or suspension concerns as they travel to Vale Park.

Roeder admitted the team sustained a number of knocks after they beat Mansfield 2-1 last weekend but there has been no long-term damage from the game.

Tyler Walker is not available but very close to being fit as he continues to improve on the road to recovery following a knee injury.

Matt Godden has trained this week but a late decision will be made on Friday as to whether he will travel with the squad.