Port Vale have signed Thierry Small from Southampton a season-long loan for 2022-23 season.
Small joined Southampton last season from Everton on a free transfer after he snubbed a contract offer from the Toffees, yet has only managed just one senior appearance which came in a 2-1 Fourth Round victory against Coventry City in last season’s FA Cup.
Ralph Hasenhuttl has consequently decided to send Small on a season-long loan to League One’s Port Vale for the new season, in order to enable him to develop and gain first-team experience.
Port Vale’s Director of Football, Dave Flitcroft explained why the club have agreed to welcome Small on loan, as he commented: “Thierry is someone who plays with adventure, he’s a player who has a real no fear approach to attacking the last third of the pitch.
“When you play for a top club like Southampton, you must be well versed in attacking ability and desire, and that’s what Thierry brings to us.”
Flitcroft proceeded to add that Port Vale often explore club environments as part of their recruitment process, as he praised Southampton for having produced “outstanding” players,” who are “always humble, respectful, and top people alongside being top class players.”
Flitcroft also paid tribute to Southampton for their conduct throughout this deal, in which the League One team produced a presentation about their playing style, manager Darrell Clarke and playing environment which impressed the Saints.
Southampton meanwhile issued the following statement on Small’s loan move in which they said: “The club wishes Thierry all the best during his time at Vale Park and looks forward to monitoring his progress this season.”
Small could make his debut for the Valiants at Vale Park in their season-opening home clash against Fleetwood Town, as they finally get their first League One campaign since 2016-17 season underway after having been promoted via League Two play-offs last season.
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