Chris Lines: Bristol Rovers re-sign Port Vale midfielder on loan

Bristol-born Chris Lines made his Rovers debut in 2006

Bristol Rovers have re-signed midfielder Chris Lines on loan from Port Vale until the end of the season.

The 29-year-old began his career at the Memorial Stadium and made 190 appearances for the club before joining Sheffield Wednesday in 2011.

He has made 31 appearances in all competitions this season for Port Vale.

"He knows the club well and is keen to help our promotion push. I look forward to welcoming him back," Rovers boss Darrell Clarke told the club website.

Lines has started just twice and came off the bench a further eight times since he was sent-off for head-butting in their 1-0 loss at MK Dons on 22 November.

"He wants to play football matches," Port Vale boss Rob Page told BBC Radio Stoke. "You respect him for that.

"It's not easy to keep him out but, when you're winning games of football, it's hard to change it.

"I've not going to apologise for sticking with the same team. The others have got to respect that and wait for their opportunity to get back in."