Vale defender close to comeback

The experienced centre-back, 27, limped out of Tuesday night's disappointing home defeat to Chesterfield nursing a hamstring injury amid fears of another spell on the sidelines having not long returned from a fractured cheekbone. But Owen received positive news on Thursday after learning he may well be in the frame for next weekend's home clash against Barnet. "It's a septum bleed, so that is good news," he told the club's official website. "It's the best-case scenario. "I will miss this weekend's game but, all being well, I will be fit for next weekend."