Adam Yates finally put pen to paper when he signed for the Vale at midday today to become Micky Adams' second signing in a week.

The deal was more or less sorted before Adams was appointed Vale boss recently, but the manager was happy to sign the Milton-born defender following an agreement with Vale Chairman Bill Bratt.

The 26-year-old former Crewe trainee made 89 appearances during his spell at Morecambe and has made over a hundred first team appearances in his career so far and will give the manager more options in the Vale defence.

Adam said: "I have followed Vale from when I was a kid. Once I reached 16 and was starting out on my career I obviously didn't go to as many games, but it is a club I am proud to be joining and excited to be here.

"I am from the area so I know what it means to the supporters and I have kept a close eye on the club for about the last twenty years of my life, so it is a lovely feeling to be here.

"I would have come here probably before any other club in the League had I got the chance and because I know all about the club and already know some of the players here I can't wait to get started.

"The first interest shown from Vale was about Christmas time. I was offered a new contract by Morecambe in February, but knowing there was some interest from here and a few other clubs I never pursued that.

"Once it became clear I was taking my time making a decision on a new contract it was withdrawn, and I understand and respect that.

"I was offered a contract here before the new manager came in, but I wouldn't have come here had he not given it his blessing.

"He has obviously done a bit of homework on me and he has spoken to a few people about me, and it is up to me now to prove myself to him.

"I am happy with what Micky had to say to me. He told me in no uncertain terms that if he didn't want me here I wouldn't be here, so I am happy with how things have gone.

"Every player will start the season with a blank sheet. He has already started to bring his own players in, but all of the players already here will start with a clean slate."