Lincoln City have seen former defender Lewis Montsma secure a move to League Two side Port Vale after completing a one-year contract. The 28-year-old Dutchman, who left Sincil Bank for Dundee in February, has earned his return to the EFL following a successful pre-season trial with the Valiants.
What happened during Montsma’s Lincoln City career?
Montsma joined Lincoln City from FC Dordrecht in summer 2020 and quickly became a fan favourite. He scored six goals in his first nine appearances, including strikes against Crewe Alexandra, Bradford City, Liverpool and Charlton Athletic. His debut season saw him net nine times in all competitions, helping Michael Appleton’s side reach the League One play-off final. He was also named in the 2020/21 PFA League One Team of the Year.
How did injuries shape his time at Sincil Bank?
Two serious anterior cruciate ligament injuries disrupted Montsma’s progress. The first, suffered in January 2022 against Oxford United, sidelined him for over a year. A second ACL rupture followed shortly after his return, ruling him out for the entire 2023/24 season. He made a comeback in August 2024 against Harrogate Town and went on to feature 21 times in the 2024/25 campaign, adding four cup appearances last season before his move to Dundee.
What’s next for Montsma at Port Vale?
After his short-term spell in Scotland, Montsma spent pre-season with Port Vale, featuring in friendlies and their training camp in Spain. His performances earned him a one-year deal at Vale Park. In total, he made 109 appearances for Lincoln City, scoring 12 goals, and leaves as a cult hero thanks to his composure, leadership and resilience through injury.
