PAUL Mariner has made it painfully clear that he is unhappy with the situation that delayed Réda Johnson's return to Home Park from African Cup of Nations duty.

Johnson had been away in Angola for the tournament but the Benin international was told to return if his side was eliminated.

Benin made their exit last Wednesday but Johnson was obliged to attend a reception with the President before returning home. He is due back in the UK today and Mariner will be having strong words after the Tuesday night clash with Derby County.

"I have been reliably informed that he arrived back in the South-West this afternoon," said Argyle's Head Coach.

"I'm not very happy about it, to say the least. I will have a discussion with him, not tomorrow, but before much longer.

"I was adamant about it [Johnson's return]. There was no grey area.

"Obviously, I want every single player to further their international careers but when their international commitments are over, it is important they come back to the people that employ them.

"Everybody talks about the certain things players, as a group, have to do after games, and I appreciate that, but you have to have give and take in all situations, and we've given a lot.

"I don't think any club would be happy about it."