Martin has started only three league games for Vale this season

Port Vale goalkeeper Chris Martin is likely to keep his place in the team for the foreseeable future, despite the return of Stuart Tomlinson from injury.

Tomlinson has been the number one choice in goal for Vale this season, but lost his place to Martin after hurting his hip two weeks ago.

"Chris has been playing really well and it will be difficult to leave him out," boss Jim Gannon told BBC Radio Stoke.

Vale, currently seventh in League Two, play Northampton at home on Saturday.

Martin, 20, was Vale's first-choice keeper last season, starting 39 of 46 matches in League Two.

The reason he has the number one shirt is because he has built up a reputation as a very capable number one Jim Gannon on Chris Martin

However, he lost his place following the arrival of Tomlinson from Barrow in the summer and had been restricted to appearances in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy until the turn of the year.

Despite spending the majority of the season on the bench, Gannon said Martin is still considered the club's number one goalkeeper.

"The reason he has the number one shirt is because he has built up a reputation as a very capable number one," added Gannon.

"I think he has shown that over the last couple of games and I have every confidence in him."

Vale could also welcome back top scorer Marc Richards for the home game with Bradford on 18 February.

The striker has been out with a thigh injury since 3 January but has now returned to full training.

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