Youth is the way forward to help Valiants thrive in League One, says Clarke

DARRELL Clarke says investment in the youth system is one way Port Vale plan to punch above their weight in League One.

The manager was at Tuesday’s FA Youth Cup second-round tie against Salford at Kidsgrove Athletic when Vale’s 1-0 win earned a place in the third round for the first time in four years.

Tuesday’s side featured Tommy Mcdermott, James Plant, Jack Shorrock and Rhys Walters who have all been given their first-team debuts by Clarke this season.

The manager says the owners’ investment in infrastructure behind the first team, including the youth side, is crucial. He said: “It is very important. We have to do that as a football club to try to get to the next level because we are not going to have a top end budget in this league. That would be impossible with the size of the clubs.

“So, we have to punch above our weight. We understand that and I enjoy working that way and getting after the so-called big teams.

“To do that you have to have an infrastructure that the owners have worked very hard to build. The coaching staff and academy staff are doing great to try to produce as many players as we possibly can for the first team.”

The youth side made a positive impression on Clarke as they edged out Salford in a half-fought game thanks to Che Trapasso’s first half goal, set up by Shorrock’s cross.

That secured Vale’s first appearance in the third round since they were beaten 3-2 at home to Norwich City in the 2018/19 season.

This year’s team is under the management of Scott Ruscoe and former Sheffield United and Rochdale forward Matty Done, part of the academy structure managed by Will Ryder.

Clarke said: “I am absolutely delighted. I looked at the game the other day and I always try to give an honest assessment whether we have won or lost.

“It looked very well structured, very well drilled and very well coached. The lads gave everything for what we are about as a football club so I was proud of our younger players and my staff on the day. They are doing a terrific job.”

The draw for the FA Youth Cup third round has been pencilled in for November 18 but the draw has been known to be delayed if not enough ties have been completed by then. The third round games are due to be played by December 17.

DARRELL Clarke rarely gives much away about injuries but was prepared to offer a little when asked about James Wilson at Friday morning’s press conference.

Wilson, last season’s 15-goal top scorer, has been out since he was on the receiving end of a late challenge in the 2-2 draw at Wycombe on November 1.

Clarke was reluctant to offer many details but hinted the 26 year old has not suffered a long-term injury.

He said: “He is hopefully not going to be too long but ankles can be a little bit tricky so hopefully he won’t be out too much longer.”