THE return to fitness of Gary Sawyer has added more pressure on Chris Barker's position as Argyle regular left-back.

Jim Paterson has been pushing hard for a starting place all season and Sawyer's recovery from a hamstring problem arguably makes the left-back position Argyle's strongest area.

It is a competition manager Paul Sturrock welcomes but, for now, Barker remains first choice ahead of Saturday's Home Park meeting with Ipswich Town.

"He [Barker] has come through that test [for his place]," said Luggy. "His fitness levels at the start of the season were not up to the standards he can achieve.

"There are still bits and pieces to his game, and I talked to him today about things I want him to work on.

"He has definitely responded to the criticism I put upon him.

"Gary Sawyer is now up and running, although he is a bit tender from a stud on the shin. A couple of reserve games for him will put another edge to the left-back position."