"part of the squad"? Don't really see why he shouldn't be given the chance as a starter. Done nothing wrong.
You have a point but I think it's been mentioned several times that Hope was only really brought in as a sort of Plan B/back up if ED or JY didn't come back. Both did of course.
But yes he has shown he can poach and get in decent positions, a few with his head too. Of the game time he got with us in the League last season, his record is not bad. I don't think he brings much more to his game but if playing as a forward and notching a goal or two when you play...well there isn't much more to ask of him.
Still think people are right in thinking he is a good squad player to have, who may well force his way into the regular starting XI. I would be worried if RW was pinning hopes on Hallam to be our main striker. I don't think that is his plan and listening to ToTT yesterday (again pinche of salt required), RW did allude that Hope wouldn't go anywhere unless new heads came in. You can read that two ways;
If we get no one in (very unlikely) Hope will not go to Vale or elsewhere.
or
Once new targets have been secured and agreed, Hope will go out on loan or be sold (possibly to Vale).
He may even start the season but he might not be with us b the time the transfer window has shut. I think we can take a positive either way. If he stays he is a good squad player who could force into regular plans, if he goes we have added more to our squad that are regarded better by RW.