‘OUTSTANDING’ TOM SETTING STANDARD, INSISTS VALE BOSS

DARRELL Clarke says Tom Conlon is a terrific example to his Port Vale squad after the midfielder helped the club pull away from the League Two relegation zone.

One of Clarke’s earliest decisions after becoming manager last month was to confirm Conlon would be remaining as captain.

And the 25-year old, from Porthill, was instrumental in Tuesday’s 2-1 win at home against Newport with his all-round performance and by scoring the opening goal. Conlon’s form had been questioned over the last few weeks, but Clarke says the midfielder had been unlucky, such as when his longrange effort hit the post in last week’s frustrating goalless draw at home to Oldham.

The manager said: “He has been unfortunate. I have been watching the games back. He has struck some sweet ones, but they have gone straight at the goalie and he hit the inside of the post the other week.

“He is getting in the positions to score goals and that is all you can ask from an attacking midfielder. “Obviously you want more to end up in the back of the net but he gets his just rewards. He is a model pro. Since I have come in the door, Tom Conlon has been outstanding, just the way he dedicated his life to his football, the way he looks after himself.

“We need more players like that. That is the demands I make on the players. And the players have come up trumps (against Newport).” The Vale return to action on Saturday away to Colchester having gone above the Essex side, and into 20th, with Tuesday’s win.

The result also lifted Vale eight points clear of Southend who are in the final relegation spot, second from bottom.

Vale hadn’t scored in their four previous home games, but ended that run as goals from Conlon and 11-goal top scorer Devante Rodney saw off promotion-chasing Newport.