Famous Players – The 1990’s

Andy Porter

Born in Holmes Chapel, Andy joined Vale as a youngster after being released by Manchester City. He signed a professional contract with the club on 29 June 1987 and went on to have a long association with Vale as player and then coach. Fansite Forum OneValeFan describes how “Goober” as he is affectionately referred to by Vale supporters,  “gave passion, power and energy to a Vale side and as a result he was often moved around the midfield“.

His spell with Vale was one of the most successful the club had enjoyed for many years, including appearances at Wembley Stadium, FA Cup giant killing acts and twice winning promotion to the second tier of the English Football League. He captained the club in the 1996 Anglo-Italian Cup Final, as Vale lost 5–2 to Genoa. He enjoyed a testimonial match against Derby County in 1996.

Andy left the Vale in 1998 but returned in 2004 as youth coach and during the following 2 seasons made a handful of further appearances for the first team.

His total of 433 games for the Vale in all competitions places him 6th in the list of the club’s all time appearance makers.

He is currently first team coach at Nantwich Town.