Famous Players – The 2010’s

Louis Dodds

Midfielder-striker Louis Dodds came though the Academy at Leicester City signing his first full contract with the Foxes in 2006. Following several loan spells with the likes of Rochdale and Lincoln City he signed a 2-year deal with the Vale in summer 2008.  Louis scored on his debut for the Valiants in the first game of the season against Luton and went on to score 10 goals in 48 games during 2008-09.

Louis played either as a midfielder, striker or deep lying striker behind a front 3. He was utilised well in this latter option behind Tom Pope and wingers Jenison Myrie-Williams and Ashley Vincent during the promotion winning 2012-13 season when he managed 7 goals in 36 appearances.

A popular player with the Vale supporters, Louis spent 8 years with the Valiants before moving on to Shrewsbury and then Chesterfield before returning to the Vale for a brief loan period in 2018-19. 

He subsequently played for Hanley Town helping them to win promotion to the Northern Premier League before retiring as a player in 2024.

He is currently coach at Congleton Town who are managed by former Vale team-mate Richard Duffy.