It is possibly not too early to say the visit from Port Vale this weekend is a crucial six-pointer for Exeter City.

After a superb start to the Sky Bet League One season, the Grecians have slumped to a ten-game winless run and suffered a humbling 7-0 loss at high-flying Bolton Wanderers.

However, the battling 0-0 draw with Shrewsbury Town, followed by a free weekend to regroup, and manager Gary Caldwell knows that a win over Port Vale, one place above them in the table, could be the catalyst for a return to the good times at St James Park.

"I saw a big reaction in terms of character, commitment and desire," Caldwell told BBC Radio Devon after the Shrewsbury draw.

"I couldn't ask for any more after how flat and low we were, and how hurt we were after the [Bolton] game because these players really care about their football, their careers and this football club.”