Montano in line for Vale return in Cambridge clash

Port Vale midfielder Cristian Montano could return for Saturday’s Sky Bet League Two clash with Cambridge.

Montano missed last weekend’s 5-2 defeat at Grimsby after suffering a slight concussion.

Vale manager John Askey has hinted at making changes following the performance at Blundell Park, with strikers Tom Pope and Mark Cullen among the players pushing for recalls.

Summer signings Callum Evans and Scott Burgess are still awaiting debuts, but Rhys Browne and Manny Oyeleke (both hamstring) are unlikely to return.

Cambridge could hand a debut to Samir Carruthers at Vale Park.

Midfielder Carruthers signed a one-year contract with the U’s on Thursday following his release by Sheffield United.

United boss Colin Calderwood criticised his team after Wednesday’s 6-0 Carabao Cup loss to Swansea and may respond by making multiple changes.

Marc Richards is expected to be back in contention after being rested in south Wales, while fellow striker Jabo Ibehre, who has not featured for three weeks, has been suffering with concussion but could be involved. Left-back Dan Jones (foot) remains a doubt.