Good athletic players – Port Vale manager explains summer transfer tactics

Port Vale manager Andy Crosby says that physicality and athleticism on the pitch have been key factors in the club’s summer recruitment plans.

So far, the Valiants have recruited Tom Sang, Connor Ripley, Alex Iacovotti, Conor Grant and Jayson Leutwiler.

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We have to aim to be the fittest team in the league – that has to be our aim, so we’ve recruited some really good athletic players…

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Speaking to BBC Radio Stoke Crosby commented: “We have to aim to be the fittest team in the league – that has to be our aim, so we’ve recruited some really good athletic players.

“We’ve got the fresh and fit for the first game of the season and fitter for the 46th game of the season – that’s what we’ve fed back to players and they’ve bought into that.

“If we can try to be the fittest, most organised team in this league, we’re going to give ourselves an opportunity.

“We’re at the start of a new beginning. I’m delighted with all five of them. We spoke at the end of the season about the areas we needed to improve on – physically, athleticism on the pitch and how we could grow as a group off it.

“A lot of research has been done on all of them and hopefully all five of them have a fantastic Port Vale career and help us grow.

“They all bring different qualities and experiences and we’re almost trying to piece together a jigsaw and we have to utilise those pieces in the right way.”

Crosby is excited about taking charge adding: “I’m starting from scratch as a manager.

“I’ve spoken to the guys about how I want to do the job – the non-negotiables for me – I’m going to be honest and respectful.

“I’m buzzing. I’ve got a lot to prove but I’m ready and excited for the future.”