Port Vale v Huddersfield preview

League Two hosts intent on causing an upset

Last updated: 27th November 2009  

Port Vale v Huddersfield preview

Clark: Set to make changes

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Huddersfield manager Lee Clark could be tempted to make a couple of changes for his side's FA Cup clash at Port Vale.

Clark has no new injury or suspension worries for the second-round tie and has the luxury of being able to field an unchanged side for the ninth successive match.

But the Terriers went down to their first defeat in six matches in midweek at Swindon and Clark might want to freshen up his line-up.

The likes of Lionel Ainsworth, Theo Robinson, Jim Goodwin and Andy Butler have all had to be patient in recent weeks and could be rewarded with a start in the cup.

Huddersfield demolished Dagenham & Redbridge 6-1 at the Galpharm Stadium in round one.

Vale news

Port Vale will be without influential centre-back Gareth Owen for the clash.

Owen, who was already wearing a face mask, was forced off just before half-time in Tuesday's 2-2 draw against Torquay having sustained another blow to his fractured cheekbone.

He has now undergone minor surgery and will be sidelined for up to two weeks to ensure the injury fully heals.

Vale manager Micky Adams hauled off Louis Dodds after just 35 minutes of the midweek draw such was his displeasure at the former Lincoln man's performance.

New signing Sean Rigg took his place and is in line for a start in the cup after contributing with an impressive display.

His performance leaves Adams with at least one selection dilemma as he looks to guide Vale into the hat for a potentially lucrative third-round tie.

Captain Tommy Fraser serves the second game of a three-match suspension while striker Danny Glover has completed a loan switch to Rochdale and will therefore not be available.

Midfielder Doug Loft (groin) and loan forward Lewis Haldane (knee) are both doubts but striker Geoff Horsfield played 65 minutes for the reserves on Wednesday night having missed out of late due to a groin injury and he could find himself on the bench.

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