David Howland has revealed the opportunity to play regular first-team football was a major factor in his decision to sign for Port Vale.The 21-year-old joined Lee Sinnott's side on a permanent basis from Birmingham earlier in the summer as The Valiants manager looks to rebuild his squad after they were relegated to League Two.

The midfielder spent three months on loan at Vale Park this season and added that Sinnott was a major factor in his decision to join the club on a permanent basis.

Howland told The Sentinel: "Vale are a good club and the gaffer is doing a good job. Things are looking positive for next year. I'm happy with the deal."

"Coming a few leagues down is not a problem because it gives me the opportunity of playing first-team football."

"I think the gaffer dealt with the situation well last season when we had a struggling team. But it was also the likes of Mark Grew and Dean Glover who were factors in my decision."

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