Wotton to the Core

PAUL Wotton talked about quitting football after helping steer Argyle to three precious points at Dagenham & Redbridge...

...but only to say he has absolutely no intentions of hanging up his boots just yet.

The veteran defender, who turns 37 in August, was recalled by manager John Sheridan for his first game since the first week of October and played a full part in the 2-1 triumph at the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham Stadium.

Only Sammy Black and Kevin Hodges have played more times for Argyle than Wottsy, whose passion shone through on the pitch and afterwards when asked if not making the Pilgrims’ starting line-up every week was disappointing.

“Of course I get disappointed,” he said. “I’m a professional sportsman and I want to play every game. If I didn’t, I’d quit.

“But, at the moment, I’ve still got that desire to play. If I embarrass myself on the pitch, I would walk away. I think you could see today that it’s the same Paul Wotton – loud, gobby and brash – but I am older now and fully understanding of the situation.

“It is what it is. I’m pleased to play. The gaffer doesn’t have to explain anything to me. I don’t go knocking on his door. I feel as fit today as I did when I was 26.

“I work hard in training and if I play, I play. If not, I am there for the boys. If I’m sub, I’m ready to come on; if I’m not sub, it’s not really an issue.

“I was pleased to play, but even more pleased with the win.”

So, no regrets. Well, maybe one.

During the second half, Wottsy received the ball about 30 yards from the Daggers’ goal. The Green Army does not forget. “Shoooooot!” went up the familiar cry. So he did. Rather tamely, into the hands of goalkeeper Chris Lewington.

“I shouldn’t have,” said Wottsy. “I got a bit giddy. I should have sent it wide to Matt Parsons. I got sucked in a bit. I’m not as powerful as I was, that’s for sure.”