ARGYLE sprang a late selection surprise at Turf Moor on Saturday afternoon when they named Scottish international forward Paul Gallagher in their squad.

The Glaswegian joined the Pilgrims on an emergency loan from Premier League Blackburn Rovers to enable him to play in the weekend's Coca-Cola Championship game against Burnley.

He has been assigned the number 11 shirt.

The deal for Gallagher, who celebrated his 24th birthday on the opening day of the Championship season, will be made up into a season-long loan before the transfer-window close on Monday.

The tall Scot can play on either wing, in centre midfield, or as an out and out striker, and Argyle manager Paul Sturrock said: "He is a six-footer, which is important, and gives us a range of attacking options. He has the advantage that he can play in a variety of forward positions.

"He scored 12 goals and was leading scorer for Stoke when he played for them a couple of seasons ago, and has Premiership experience and has played in Europe for Blackburn.

"He is still only just 24 and I am very much looking forward to getting down to working with him."

Galllagher, who completed the formalities of the deal on Saturday morning, said: "It is a great move for me.

"I am looking forward to getting some games under my belt and helping Plymouth climb the table."

Gallagher has played 59 times in the top-flight for Blackburn - a third of the time as a starter - and scored six goals.

In his five seasons since turning pro at Ewood Park, he has also played UEFA Cup football and scored twice in ten cup appearances.

He has plenty of Championship experience, too, having played on loan for both Stoke City (twice) and Preston North End.

He said: "It was a good season for me at Stoke. I scored 12 goals and played regularly. I want to do the same for Plymouth now and contribute to success for the club."

"I remember playing for Stoke at Home Park. I think it was one of my better games!"