Vale Hit By Richards Blow

The Valiants have suffered a massive blow with the news that inspirational captain Marc Richards has opted to join League Two rivals Chesterfield on a two year deal. The 29 year old has rejected an improved deal with the Vale to become the Spireites top earner following their relegation form League One last season. Richards has been Vale`s leading scorer over the last four seasons and has shown commendable loyalty during a difficult period in Vale`s history. Rejecting moves to Shrewsbury Town and Crawley Town following the club`s slide into administration. However, the news will be a bitter pill to swallow for all Vale supporters and manager Micky Adams, who has the unenviable task of rebuilding a squad decimated by the departures of Richards, Sean Rigg and Anthony Griffith.

Chesterfield Chief Executive Chris Turner spoke of his delight at securing the deal: "I am absolutely delighted that Marc Richards has decided to join the Spireites."

"We have had to fight off competition from several League One and League Two clubs to get his signature but he is a natural goalscorer and the type of player who will bring his experience to side intent on pushing for promotion."

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