Chasetown happy to lose duo

Chasetown boss Charlie Blakemore has revealed how he wept at the departure of star players Chris Slater and Kyle Perry.

Slater and Perry signed 18-month contracts with League One side Port Vale yesterday as reward for their role in the Scholars' history-making FA Cup run.

Blakemore has been a central figure in the negotiations which have given the pair a fresh chance in the Football League after they were rejected by Wolves and Walsall as youngsters.

His reward is a match ticket from Vale to see the two youngsters make their debuts.

But his real reward runs much deeper than that as he revealed his immense pride at seeing them secure their dream.

"I have to admit, I cried," said Blakemore.

"I told the lads I wanted them to look smart when they went to sign because they were still representing Chasetown.

"They were there in suits and they were like little kids with their squad numbers and shirts.

"I had a chat with Lee Sinnott (Vale boss) for half an hour and I was just about to go when I went say goodbye to them.

"They were having their medicals and after saying goodbye, I turned around to go and they stopped me and gave me a hug, saying they wouldn't let me down and that it was all down to me.

"I had to go because I was crying. They have both texted me since to say I have changed their lives, but I told them they have done that themselves."

Blakemore is convinced the pair will succeed at the professional level.

"I can't replace Chris, but given time he will be a fantastic signing in the Football League. He has always shown that class," he said.

"He was about to give up on football when he came here but he put his trust in me and he has got his reward.

"Kyle has got untapped potential. When I saw him play, I thought there's not that many target men who are that mobile.

"He's 6ft 4ins tall and he has a massive presence. Just to think a year ago he was substitute for Willenhall in the play-off semi-final against us – now he's a professional."