SMITH REVEALS VALE SHOCK

Long-serving defender admits he thought he'd be offered a new contract after promotion season

- Clive Youlton

NATHAN Smith admits it has been an emotional time after being released by Port Vale.

The 29-year-old centre-back says he has endured a tough week after boss Darren Moore and the club gave him the news that he wouldn't be offered a new contract.

Smith, in the top 10 all-time record appearances at Vale Park, was hurt not to be considered for the first five months of the season, but managed to get back into the team to help the Valiants to win promotion from League Two.

And he was obviously shocked at the decision to dispense with his services after 428 appearances and 22 goals.

"It's been a difficult few days to be fair," he said. "Monday was really tough for me and the family. I've not really come out and said much just yet.

"I've been taking it in and staying close to home and just processing it all. In my opinion I thought I'd probably done enough to warrant another one [contract].

"It was a tough season but it ended on a big high. Monday was super tough. I got a bit emotional and shot off out of here.