Hamza Leaves

JOHN Sheridan paid tribute to Hamza Bencherif after revealing he would not be extending the Algerian’s short-term deal.

Following the Pilgrims’ 2-0 New Year’s Day victory over Torquay United, the Argyle manager confirmed that Hamza has left the club, but was eager to praise the midfielder’s work ethic in tough circumstances.

John said: “His main problem is that he’s behind the other players because he hasn’t had a pre-season. I think he was just playing catch-up a little bit.

“I’ve just been honest and told him I can’t pick him that often when I can bring in younger players instead, but his attitude has been great since he came here.”

Most of Hamza’s first-team appearances for the Greens have been from the bench or in cup games, and despite his best efforts, his chances to play 90 minutes consistently have been few and far between.

John said: “I just think we’ve got enough good players in the midfield area, with the likes of Youngy [Luke Young] and Dom [Blizzard] coming back.

“It’s the toughest part of my job to not pick players, and I’ve just not been able to play Hamza enough.”

Everyone at Home Park thanks Hamza for his contribution to the Green cause and wishes him well in his future career.