HARVEY VALE – 20 – LB/ LWB – Chelsea
Harvey Vale spent the entirety of last season on loan at League One club, Bristol Rovers, making 47 appearances in all competitions. The England youth international had a really strong season, where it looks like he finally nailed down his best position after flirting with several over his career.
For left back, I had hoped we would sign Peterborough’s Harrison Burrows. And although it does appear he is heading to Yorkshire, it looks to be to bitter rivals, Sheffield United, where he’ll be playing his football next season. Back to Vale – Vale is someone I watched earlier this summer when I was narrowing down my shortlist for the EFL signings article and although Burrows ultimately made my final pick, Vale was always the back up plan, and for good reason.
Vale has played numerous positions throughout his career, but last season he really made left back and left wing-back his own. His versatility should also be considered an asset, too, as gaining a player who excels in one position, but can also play in multiple roles to a good standard is always handy to have in a 46 game slog of a season.
Having started his career as an attacking midfielder, it goes without saying that his technical ability is top drawer. His lovely first touch is a notable asset and it sets up his game perfectly. First and foremost, Vale is a forward-thinking, progresser of the ball. He wants to get the ball up the pitch every time he receives it, whether dribbling or passing and moving, making him a great attacking outlet.
An expeditious dribbler at heart, his close control sees him make lovely incisive runs, always making a beeline for the oppositions attacking third. Then there is his link up play and nous for through balls which can cause serious problems. Furthermore, so can his crossing ability, which I would describe as very seductive thanks to his vision and anticipation of runners. This season has seen Vale’s attacking contributions amount to three goals and six assists, but realistically he should have had more assists were it not for his profligate teammates.
Off the ball, his work rate is exceptional, and it’s a trait which helps immensely. It helps him make space for himself as he busts a gut up the pitch and on the flip side it helps the team defensively as he chases down and presses very well.
Vale also plays his defensive role with vim and vigour. His concentration levels help him make well-timed challenges, often breaking up dangerous opposition attacks. He’s a strong tackler thanks to his large frame and the pace in which he closes the distance into the challenge. Vale is allegedly around 6 foot, although he does appear bigger, and thanks to this combination of physical prowess and athleticism, it sees him be a very effective aerial duel winner.
Statistically, Vale ranks really well for key passes and successful crosses, ranking in the top 84th and 93rd percentile, respectively. He also attempts 2.02 dribbles per 90 minutes, seeing him in the top 86th percentile.
Defensively he makes 2.79 tackles per 90 minutes, and he wins 6.64 duels per 90, seeing him rank in the 95th and 85th percentile.
Vale is an athletic, technical, attacking force on the left that can also do the defending dog work that’s asked of him.
Chelsea have stated they are looking to loan Vale out again this season. A step up from League One last season to the Championship this season is something I feel is well within Vale’s sights and ability, and something Leeds would be smart to explore.
Author – Ryan Thomas.
Written by Dillinger July 27 2024 09:13:12
