THE absence of Karl Duguid has hit Argyle harder than manager Paul Sturrock ever imagined.

The captain has been a revelation as a converted midfielder for the Greens since his summer move from Colchester and Argyle have failed to win in the six games he has missed through injury.

Luggy is understandably keen to have Duguid fit for the Boxing Day clash with Southampton, along with another vital Green ingredient, Rory Fallon, who missed last weekend's loss at Barnsley through suspension.

"This team is a jigsaw puzzle and certain pieces are invaluable to us," said Luggy.

"We have not won a game without Duguid in the team and we look a different team when Rory plays.

"We have worked very hard to get a shape to ourselves and a style, and it has basically benefited us. If bits of our cog are missing, we don't flow the same or have a rhythm.

"Rory's back and we will give Duguid every opportunity, although we targeted Cardiff for his comeback, but I will wait and see what transpires.

"We have a shortage in that area [centre-midfield] and it is something I will look to strengthen in the transfer window."

Also fighting for a spot against Southampton will be right-back David McNamee, who heralded his return from injury with an impressive 70 minutes at Barnsley.

"We will see how he reacts but I was very pleased to get him 70 minutes, and he didn't look as if he had missed a day," said Luggy.

"He was very athletic in everything he did and was a big bonus to us. He gives us a very positive approach from our full-back positions."