McCombe helped by settled defence

McCombe is one of five players to captain Port Vale this season

John McCombe has said his run of impressive performances in the Port Vale defence is down to playing in a settled back four.

The former Hereford man has played in each of the last 12 matches for Vale.

McCombe told BBC Radio Stoke: "As a team, we've played brilliantly. Paul Edwards has done well at left-back, and Sam Stockley has come in and done well.

"It helps when you've got old heads at the side of you, talking you through the game and passing on information."

The 23-year-old has made 28 starts since signing from promoted Hereford in May 2008, scoring two goals.

He also wore the captain's armband in the 2-0 win at Accrington on 17 March, becoming the fifth player to skipper the team this season.

Vale face two tough games in the space of three days, with a trip to Rochdale on Saturday followed by a home match against Rotherham on Easter Monday.

"I don't think we've done the double over many teams this season, but I can't see why we can't go up there and get a result," said McCombe.