Vale's Owen happy to play in mask

The mask that Owen is wearing to protect his fractured cheekbone

Port Vale defender Gareth Owen says he is happy to play in a mask to protect his fractured cheekbone.

The 27-year-old defender was injured against Bradford on 10 November but returned to the Vale team in the 0-0 draw against Barnet on Saturday.

"Some people call it brave (to play) and some people call it daft, but I don't see any reason why I shouldn't be playing," he told BBC Radio Stoke.

"I had whacks on it in the game, and with the mask there it felt fine."

The former Stockport centre-back had appeared in every game for the Valiants this season before getting injured at Valley Parade.

He missed two matches - the League Two defeat at home by Rotherham and the FA Cup first round replay victory at Stevenage - before returning for the goalless draw at Underhill on Saturday.

The Bees are yet to lose at home in the league this season and Owen was pleased to take a point from the match.

"A point away from home is not a bad result, especially when you keep a clean sheet," added Owen.

Captain Tommy Fraser will miss the next three matches through suspension, starting with the home game against Torquay on Tuesday, after being sent off deep into stoppage time at Barnet.