Owen backing fringe Vale players

Owen fought off a virus to feature in the 1-1 draw against Cheltenham

Gareth Owen believes the players on the fringes of the squad have an important role to play for Port Vale this season.

Defender Luke Prosser started alongside Owen in the 1-1 draw against Cheltenham on Saturday, days after being recalled from a loan spell at Salisbury.

Owen told BBC Radio Stoke: "You'll pick up injuries and suspensions so it's important you have that back-up.

"We need a squad because it's a long season and you need people that can come in and do a good job."

Owen was one of several players to be struck down with a virus before the draw with Cheltenham, and said it was hard work to make it through the full 90 minutes.

"I was almost sick in the warm-up and then I was sick at half time," admitted the former Stockport defender.

"I just tried to put myself in positions by using my brain more than anything, because I had no energy to do the things that I'm usually good at.

"But I did a job for the team, just as the manager asked me to, and I gave everything I can.

"I've trained this week and I've had no ill effects. Hopefully after a good week's training I'll be ready to go for Dagenham on Saturday."

Midfielder Jason Jarrett missed training on Monday because of the same virus, but is hopeful of being fit to face the side that are currently second in League Two.