Port Vale have confirmed that forward Ben Williamson's hamstring injury is not as bad as first feared.

The 26-year-old, who has scored nine goals this season, was forced off during Saturday's defeat at Barnsley.

Reports had suggested that Williamson would be sidelined for a lengthy period, but he is now expected to be back in action later this month.

"He picked up a bit of a hamstring pull at the weekend," manager Rob Page told the club's official website. "It is a minor tear and as a precaution we are going to give him as much time as he needs. We will reassess him at the end of the week but Saturday's game might be a bit too soon for him."

The Valiants are back in action on Saturday when they host Bradford City in League One.