Port Vale: Howland hoping for Vale redemption

MIDFIELDER Dave Howland admits he is still some way off erasing his name from the Port Vale transfer list, despite forcing his way back into first-team contention.

The 22-year-old Irishman was one of six players put up for sale byVale manager Micky Adams before the start of the season.

While the other five, including Luke Prosser and Danny Glover, secured loan moves elsewhere, Howland has remained in Burslem.

And his efforts on the training pitch and in Vale's reserve team matches earned him a substitute appearance in last month's 1-0 home defeat by Bury.

His only other appearance this season also arrived from the bench, in the 3-1 Johnstone's Paint Trophy victory over Stockport County.

But Howland said: "I still feel like I'm a long way off starting a game. I've still got a lot to prove to the gaffer.

"But to be involved is a lot better than not making the squad at all, so it's been nice to come into the squad over the last month or so.

"I'll keep doing what I'm doing and hopefully keep knocking on that door and maybe I'll get a start before too long.

"Ideally, I'd like to force my way back in to the team here, but I'm realistic because that might not happen for me.

"So I've got to be opened-minded in that if something does come along, I've got to be playing games.

"But I've really enjoyed my time here to date, so I'd like that to continue."

Howland initially joined Vale on loan from Birmingham City in January 2008.

His encouraging displays persuaded ex-boss Lee Sinnott to hand him a two-year deal at the end of the 2007/08 season.

Last term, the former Northern Ireland under-21s international was a mainstay of Vale's first-team, scoring two goals in 40 League Two appearances.

However, he was left out on the cold in the wake of Adams's arrival at Vale Park in June until his recent change in fortunes.

Howland, who will be targeting a fourth successive squad appearance for today's home clash with Cheltenham (3pm), has certainly impressed the boss.

Adams said: "Dave has an appetite for the game.

"He has got himself back into the squad with his attitude and application in training and in reserve team games.

"Those players on the outside of the squad should take a leaf out of Dave Howland's book and do what he's done.

"He's been enthusiastic, conscientious, worked hard and has got his reward by getting back into the squad.

"We don't close the door on anybody."