Griff Again

WITH Robbie Williams still recovering from injury and a heavy schedule of matches on the horizon...

...Argyle wasted no time in extending the loan spell of Scott Griffiths this week to ensure he could play in Sunday’s FA cup tie at Dorchester.

“Willo’s not quite ready yet,” said Fletch. “He’s still on his way back and we need to make sure we’re covered.”

Darren Purse has been a notable absentee over the last few games as he returns from a toe injury and Fletch is hopeful he will be back sooner, rather than later.

“He had a jab on Monday,” he said, “so we’ll keep monitoring that over the next couple of days.”

Alex MacDonald will be absent for Argyle because of the terms of his loan agreement from Burnley and Fletch believes they will miss the options he gives.

He said: “It’s another player we can’t choose from but it was a decision in the loan agreement and it’s just one of those things but, of course, you want everyone to choose from.”

On the plus side, midfielder Conor Hourihane returns from suspension. He has been a pivotal member of the squad this season and Fletch has been impressed with his impact.

“I think last year, even though he didn’t play as much, he was a key player for us,” he said.

“His energy, enthusiasm and quality on the ball is there for all to see. If we had 11 of him we wouldn’t be going far wrong.”

Argyle played one of their summer pre-season friendlies against Yeovil at Dorchester’s Avenue stadium and Fletch believes the familiarity with the ground will certainly benefit his players.

“It definitely helps as you’re not going into the unknown,” he said.

“I don’t think it’s vital but it’s a bonus.”