NEW Argyle signing Chris Barker had an eventful debut to complete a memorable 24 hours.

Barker, 28, nearly missed the start of the Pilgrims' 2-2 draw at home to Wolverhampton Wanderers because he could not remove a ring from his finger.

New Football League rules mean that, this season, all jewellery must be removed and not simply taped up, so drastic action was required.

"He couldn't get his ring off his finger, so [Jason] Puncheon and [Steve] MacLean eventually took a hacksaw to it," explained manager Paul Sturrock.

"I was hyperventilating in the toilet - I thought they were going to cut his finger off as well. They eventually got it off, but cut him."

Barker said: "I've got a nice scar on my finger.

"As I was walking out of the changing-room, the referee said 'You are not allowed any rings, you will have to take it off.'

"I've had it on eight years. It was one my dad gave me before he passed away. Hopefully, we can mend it again."

It was still touch and go that Barker would make it for the kick-off, with substitute Jim Paterson taking a place in the pre-match line-up.

"Jim Paterson had to go on the pitch just in case they couldn't get the ring off," said Luggy.

"It is a zany rule. I could never imagine somebody would make up a rule that involved a hacksaw being taken to somebody's finger.

"The rule is black and white. You are not allowed a piece of jewellery on your body, even if the finger comes off with it.

"The referee was standing there saying he can't go on but, eventually, thankfully, it came off.

"His ring is now half a ring."

Rick Cowdery