MARC Richards insists he won't allow speculation over his future to derail his season ... despite being made to wait over a new deal.

The 27-year-old striker is one of 17 players who will be out of contract in the summer, but manager Micky Adams will not decide their fate until the end of the campaign.

With Richards facing an uncertain future, Adams yesterday denied speculation that League Two rivals Bradford City had made an enquiry about the striker.

Richards admitted: "I've heard little snippets about a few different things.

"I'm out of contract in the summer and I've told my agent there are going to be bits of speculation flying about.

"But I don't want to speak to anybody and I don't even want my agent to contact me so I can concentrate on doing my thing for Port Vale.

"After the last game of the season I'll speak to him and see what happens.

"My agent is paid to work on my behalf, but I get paid to play and score for Port Vale."

Richards is enjoying his best season in front of goal having netted 19 times ahead of tomorrow's clash at Cheltenham Town (3pm).

He displayed his loyalty to Vale 18 months ago by turning down a move to Cheltenham, despite being offered a more lucrative deal.

"I spoke to the gaffer and he expressed his interest in keeping me here next year, which I'm more than happy about," added Richards.

"If that's the only offer I get that will be brilliant for me.

"I'm settled here, my family live around the area, so I couldn't ask for any more."

VALE'S Staffs Senior Cup semi-final at Kidsgrove Athletic will take place on Wednesday (7.45pm).

Big match preview: Page 54