Midfielder Gary Roberts played for England at several youth levels

Port Vale manager Micky Adams has confirmed that midfielder Gary Roberts will travel with the squad on their pre-season tour to Ireland.

The 23-year-old has been training with Vale for two weeks as he bids to earn a contract with the League Two club.

Roberts, who began his career with Crewe, has been sacked by Yeovil and Rotherham due to off-the-field issues.

"There might be a distraction or two in Ireland and we'll see how he copes with it," Adams told BBC Radio Stoke.

Gary's shown a commitment and he wants to come in. We're not paying him anything, not even any expenses Micky Adams

"I wouldn't say he's on trial because the boy has ability, I think everybody can see that. He's got better as the games have gone on because he's getting fitter.

"We've all seen trialists come into football clubs to try and get themselves fit, then to move on to another place.

"Gary's shown a commitment and he wants to come in. We're not paying him anything, not even any expenses.

"If you're going to let the demons that you've got affect you, you won't last too long here."

Adams added it is unlikely that fellow trialists Chris Brandon and Ritchie Sutton will join Roberts on the trip to Ireland.

Vale will play three matches during the tour and will set off following their friendly against Newcastle Town on Saturday.

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