Two Nods for Argyle

ARGYLE have received two nominations for the upcoming annual Football League Awards.

Left-back Ben Purrington, who burst on to the scene with his first-team debut at Oxford United on Boxing Day, is nominated as one of three candidates for Sky Bet League 2 Apprentice of the Year. Seventeen-year-old Ben, from Exeter, has captained the youth team, including on their run to the third round of the FA Youth Cup.

Ben is nominated alongside Bradley Walker, of Hartlepool, and Jack Whatmough, of Portsmouth. Last year, Tyler Harvey was nominated in the same category.

Argyle have also been given a nod in the Family Club of the Year category, along with Birmingham City, Bristol City, Middlesbrough, Oxford United and Wolverhampton Wanderers. Judged usiing a 'mystery shopper' scheme, the award honours the clubs that are leading the way in continuing to provide the very best experience for families across The Football League.

In nominating Argyle, the Football League said: "Plymouth Argyle and its Community Trust have introduced a number of new initiatives at Home Park and enhanced existing initiatives to attract more families to games and also ensure that current users have an enjoyable experience.

"This included starting the PL2 crew - a new, exclusive club for young supporters, as well as offering exclusive access to first-team training sessions. The club also launched the new community trust website and the formed the Argyle Angels - a group of 14 females who supplement family activities."

The shortlists were drawn up by a panel of judges following a stringent assessment process. Judges included influential members of media, sports industry figures and representatives of The Football League and its partners.

Shaun Harvey, Chief Executive of The Football League, said: “Many millions of fans attend Football League matches each season and The Football League Awards 2014 provides the opportunity to recognise star performances, both on and off the pitch.

“Once again, the quality of the entries this year has been extremely high, so to make the shortlists is a real achievement by the clubs and individuals involved. We wish all those nominated the best of luck and look forward to a fantastic evening in March when we will announce the winners.”

The awards ceremony will take place on March 16 in London.