Vale Announce Retained List

Vale boss Micky Adams has announced his retained list (no mention whether he is on it or not!). Anthony Griffith, Liam Chilvers and Rob Taylor have been released, while Chris Shuker is retiring. The Official Site stats that a further 12 players have been offered fresh terms. However, only 10 are named. These are:

Chris Neal, Carl Dickinson, Richard Duffy, Joe Davis, Doug Loft, Billy Knott, Chris Lines, Chris Birchall, Ryan Lloyd and Jennison Myrie-Williams.

Supporters will be delighted that the vast majority of the squad have been offered deals, although the future of Adams himself remains the priority. Several players have already stated that their futures will hinge on Adams` decision.

Chilvers and Taylor have barely featured over recent months owing to injury, so it comes as no surprise to see them leave. Griffith, possibly so given that he has been a regular starter this season. However, many feel Vale need to improve in that particular area in order to progress, with Griffith`s limitations being evident at a higher level of football. The midfielder has made over 200 appearances for the Valiants over two spells. His professionalism and attitude has been commendable over that period, playing a key role in Vale`s struggles in League Two.

Taylor, meanwhile, has struggled all year with a succession of injuries. Missing the end of last season and the start of this with an Achilles problem, before a number of soft tissue injuries have hampered him recently. Signed by Lee Sinnott in 2008, Taylor quickly became a fan favourite after being sidelined under the unpopular reign of Dean Glover. Impressing originally as a striker during Adams` early games in charge, Taylor has been a valued squad member, operating in a number of positions and scoring some memorable goals. We wish him well.

Chilvers will be remembered for his goal against Northampton Town which helped Vale secure promotion back to League One on the final day of last season. The Valiants defence, however, needs major reinforcement ahead of next season.