‎Ex-Charlton Athletic forward seals shock move to relegation-threatened side ‎

Port Vale have strengthened their forward line at a crucial point in the season by completing the permanent signing of former Charlton Athletic winger Onel Hernández, bringing valuable top-level experience into Jon Brady’s squad.

The 33-year-old has signed on until the end of the season and arrives at Vale Park as the club looks to juggle a demanding league run-in alongside continued cup commitments.

Hernández boasts a résumé that sets him apart at League One level. A Cuban international with 15 senior caps, he has featured 26 times in the Premier League and made history as the first Cuban player to both play and score in the division during his spell with Norwich City.

Over seven seasons with the Canaries, he racked up 191 league appearances, scored 11 goals, and played an important role in two Championship promotion-winning campaigns.

Earlier this season, Hernández was with Charlton Athletic, where he made six league outings before leaving when his short-term contract expired in January. Before that, he gained further Championship experience during loan spells at Middlesbrough and Birmingham City, operating in a variety of roles across the flanks, including wing-back and more advanced wide positions.

Although Port Vale currently sit in the lower half of the League One table, they remain competitive on multiple fronts. Recent results have combined narrow losses with confidence-boosting wins, while their run in the Vertu Trophy has been a notable positive. Hernández is expected to join up with his new team-mates immediately, ahead of the quarter-final clash with Stockport County.

Manager Jon Brady praised the signing after it was confirmed, underlining Hernández’s experience and adaptability.

“It’s fantastic to have Onel on board,” Brady said. “His experience and quality are clear, and he’s eager to get going. He gives us something different and we’re really looking forward to working with him.”

Hernández becomes the seventh player brought in during Brady’s tenure, adding depth to a squad that has already shown its ability to deliver in knockout football. His speed, direct approach, and comfort on either wing provide added tactical options, particularly against opponents who defend deep or look to control possession.

Over the course of his career, Hernández has made more than 400 competitive appearances, scoring 35 goals and contributing assists for promotion-winning Championship sides. On the international stage, he has four goals for Cuba, finding the net in both World Cup qualifying and CONCACAF Nations League matches.

While his minutes may be carefully managed at first, there is confidence that Hernández’s movement, decision-making, and calmness on the ball will allow him to make an impact quickly, both on the pitch and within the squad. With a busy period of league and cup fixtures ahead, his arrival offers Port Vale a timely boost of experience and quality as the season reaches its defining stages.