Vale bid to avoid unlucky seven

Port Vale are looking to avoid an unwanted club record when they host Sky Bet League Two promotion-chasers Mansfield on Saturday.

Defeat would make it seven in succession at home but they showed improved form in last weekend’s draw with Notts County, so boss John Askey may keep faith with the same starting line-up.

Defender James Gibbons could return from the back problem that saw him dropped to the bench last weekend, although Askey might opt to retain Mitch Clark.

Tom Conlon, Luke Joyce and Manny Oyeleke were a standout trio in midfield.

Mansfield manager David Flitcroft will assess Matt Preston prior to the game.

The defender missed last weekend’s victory over Cheltenham with a knee injury and is again a doubt.

Striker Tyler Walker completes a two-game suspension, while fellow forwards Danny Rose (jaw), Craig Davies (ankle) and Jordan Graham (knee) will also miss the clash.

Long-term absentees Bobby Olejnik and Hayden White remain sidelined.