Sam Morsy in training

By Joe Bennett: Port Vale manager Micky Adams believes youngster Sam Morsy has earned his place in the first team squad.

The central midfielder made his first team debut earlier in the season, replacing captain Tommy Fraser in the latter stages of Vale’s home clash with Lincoln in February.

Since then Morsy has been included on a regular basis in the first team squad and has put in some impressive displays for the reserves.

The youngster said of his first team debut: “It was a great feeling.

“It was a great buzz to get out there, I’ve worked hard this season and it feels like it’s all paying off.”

The midfielder was quick to praise his manager’s role in his progress. He said: “He’s a great manager and he’s really encouraging, he wants enthusiasm and hard work and if you give him that he’s willing to give you a chance.”

Although his debut was his only time on the pitch this season Adams says he’s got high hopes for the youngster.

“Sam’s on the first rung of his professional career and we think highly of him, but he’s not there yet,” said the Valiants boss.

“Hopefully it will be a long professional career and I’m sure we’ll see the best of him at the Vale.”

Adams has included youngsters Anthony Malbon and Matthew Bell along with Morsy on the bench this season.

And he explained that they weren’t just making up the numbers: “If they’re not good enough we don’t do that [include them] – sentiment doesn’t come into it.

“We think he’s good enough, so he’s worthy of his place”

Morsy will be looking to add to his solitary appearance by being involved in Saturday’s game with managerless Shrewsbury Town.

Vale  need to win the final game of the season and then hope Dagenham & Redbridge and Bury slip up, to secure the final play-off position in League Two.