Pope Extends Vale Stay

Vale`s week and indeed season continued to get better with the news that Tom Pope has agreed a new contract that will commit him to the club until the summer of 2015. Following a comprehensive drubbing of AFC Wimbledon, which saw the Valiants extend their lead at the top of League Two, news that the division`s leading marksman has extended his stay in the Potteries has come as a welcome relief.

There had been speculation over recent weeks regarding Pope`s future after his 27 goals so far this season had attracted the attention of several clubs. However, Pope had long stated that it was his desire to stay with his boyhood club and he has remained true to his word.

Chairman Paul Wildes commented; "Tom is a local land and a huge favourite among our supporter base and I know a lot of our fans will be delighted about this news."

Meanwhile, Pope himself stated that he never saw his future being away from Vale Park. "I`ve made no secret of my desire to stay and I`m really pleased we have come to an agreement on a new deal.

The gaffer has put a lot of faith in me and I`m really pleased I have begun to repay that faith by committing to the club for a further term."

One man who the club could well do with tying down to a new deal is midfielder Ryan Burge, who continues to grow in stature following a series of dynamic displays.

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