Roberts Released From The Vale

Former Alex player Gary Roberts has signed for Mansfield Town after having his contract at Port Vale terminated.

The troubled midfielder was once again the subject of disciplinary problems at Vale Park and this time it was the final straw for Micky Adams.

Despite being tipped as one of the clubs successful academy products, Roberts left the Alex under a cloud back in 2008 after a series of problems under Steve Holland saw Roberts go AWOL. The former England U-19 international has since played for and been released from Yeovil, Rotherham and Port Vale, all for disciplinary reasons.

In July 2010 Roberts admitted his problems with alcohol and gambling addiction having attended the Sporting Chance Clinic. However, despite numerous chances under numerous clubs it seems like the 24 year old cannot stay on the straight and narrow.

Having been disciplined by Vale boss Micky Adams back in October, Port Vale confirmed yesterday that Roberts was once again under investigation, with the Valiants confirming his departure from the club this afternoon.

His departure from Vale however was quickly followed with confirmation from Blue Square Premier club Mansfield Town that Roberts had signed a 18 month contract with the club

Stags boss Paul Cox stated: ‘I have kept an eye on Gary for some time, but never thought we would be able to bring a player of his quality to this level of football.’

We give it till August….