Andy Porter - Player Profile

Andy, who works on the family farm in Holmes Chapel and counts Robbie Williams among his mates, signed for Latics on a free transfer under the Bosman ruling on 27th May 1998 amid a storm of protest from the Port Vale fans. In what was Latics’ last season at Springfield Park he played during the pre season but suffered a leg injury and it was not until 28th November 1998 that he made his League debut for Latics against Preston North End at Deepdale in a game that resulted in a 2-2 draw. Andy was one of the goal scorers the other being Colin Greenall. However, he only made 20 League appearances and scored just 1 League goal by the end of the season. His luck was no better during the first season at the JJB Stadium and after making just 5 League appearances without scoring he was loaned to Mansfield Town on 22nd October 1999 until 20th November 1999 for whom he made 5 League appearances without scoring.

On returning to the JJB Stadium he was told by John Benson that he could leave the club on a free transfer. Nobody came in for him and on 5th February 2000 he was loaned to Chester City for the remainder of the season. Whilst at the Deva Stadium he played 16 League games without scoring as Chester were relegated from the Football League. The following season (2000/01) saw him put on the transfer list by Bruce Rioch on 10th September 2000 along with Alan McLoughlin, Brian McLaughlin and Neil Redfearn. He was transferred to Chester City on a free transfer on Friday 20th October 2000 signing a three year deal. In total he made 10+14 League appearances for the Blues, scoring once.