Reviewing 2025/26

In League terms, it was a pretty miserable season for Vale. They started off as 3rd favourites for relegation and ended up 3rd bottom. However, the fans and the board had more than enough to cheer about during a magical FA Cup run to the Quarter Finals having beaten Championship side Bristol City and Premier League outfit Sunderland along the way. Despite the 7-0 defeat at the Bridge, the bank balance will have been boosted nicely.

Looking ahead to 2026/27

We talk about it a lot but it's always interesting to see the retained and released list from newly relegated clubs. Port Vale released 13 players this summer and 6 loan signings returned to parent clubs. However, they've made some shrewd signings with the captures of Max Watters, Kyle Dempsey and Jackson Smith all adding much needed depth to the squad.

The bookies expect a promotion push. AI predicts a promotion push and most importantly, the Vale fans expect a promotion push. Is it too soon to tell though? With so many departures and new arrivals, it's just another thing that makes it so hard to call.

Court Offside Tip

Most teams that get relegated have to be given due respect the following season and Vale certainly warrant that respect. Whilst I only have them down for a 6th place finish, there's no doubt they have the ability and squad depth the sustain a serious promotion push. 11/10 for a top 7 finish is value. Arguably my pick to go up through the play offs.