Sidebar

21
Thu, Nov

Typography
Port Vale are proudly flying the flag of Trinidad and Tobago in honour of their two internationals Chris Birchall and Hector Sam. The flags of the Caribbean nation and England have been presented to the club by the Vale Volunteers Group, and are flying above the main reception at Vale Park in preparation for the World Cup in June when the two countries meet.


Birchall, from Stafford, looks a certain starter for Trinidad in Germany having been an ever present since he was called up by former Real Madrid coach Leo Beenhakker last May.

Meanwhile, Sam has a strong chance of making the squad as he is close to fitness after breaking his ankle playing for Vale in August.

Vale chairman Bill Bratt said: "We've not had a current international at Vale for quite a while, so it's great to have Chris and Hector here.

"Both are nice lads, although I'd prefer it if they were England players. We are hoping Trinidad and Tobago do really well at the World Cup, just not that well when they play England."

Bratt has also thanked the volunteers, who help staff the club shop, paint and clean the ground and organise events such as the club's popular summer open day.

Bratt added: "They are here every week and do a lot of work around the ground for which we are very thankful. "They save the club a lot of money and are genuine Vale fans through and through."