The start of a fresh EFL campaign is just days aways and, with the big kick off on the horizon, it's time to look ahead to what the new season holds in store.  

In time-honoured tradition, Playmaker Stats is here to a) preview how every EFL club is shaping up ahead of next season and b) make a bold prediction regarding how each will fare. 

Let's go!

PORT VALE

Manager: Darren Moore

Last season: 23rd in League One (Relegation)

Captain: Nathan Smith

Top scorer last season: Ben Garrity and Ethan Chislett (9 league goals)

Most minutes last season: Connor Ripley (4140 league minutes)

Transfer activity this summer

Preview

Of the four clubs relegated from League One, Port Vale has the strongest chance of making an immediate return.

Darren Moore, who took over from Andy Crosby in February, couldn't prevent Vale's relegation last season. However, he now has the opportunity to shape the team to his vision, and it seems the board has given him substantial support during the summer transfer window.

Their recruitment has been impressive. Defensive reinforcements like Ben Heneghan, Connor Hall, and Sam Hart are reliable additions. Midfielders George Byers and Ryan Croasdale bring both skill and leadership to the squad.

The attacking lineup looks particularly promising. Veterans Jayden Stockley and Ronan Curtis will help ease the pressure on young talent like Laurent Tolaj, Ruari Paton, and Baylee Dipepa.

Curtis and Stockley are expected to score plenty of goals in League Two, and Ruari Paton, who has been prolific in Scotland's lower leagues, could be a significant threat if he adapts well to the English game.

Overall, with many new signings, Port Vale's summer business has been highly impressive, setting them up for a potentially successful season.

@Getty /

Key man: George Byers

George Byers is arguably too good for League Two, and his move to Vale Park was met with widespread surprise, highlighting what an incredible signing he is for Port Vale.

The 28-year-old played a key role in their promotion in 2022/23 but didn't thrive in the Championship. However, his loan to Blackpool last season showed that he remains a standout player in League One.

Byers previously worked with Darren Moore at Wednesday, where he enjoyed the best period of his career under Moore's guidance, which makes it understandable why he was eager to reunite with his former manager at Vale Park.

Playmaker prediction: Promotion