Backing Banton

JASON Banton can be one of the best players in Sky Bet League 2 next season.

That is the belief of Pilgrims’ manager John Sheridan, who, like the Green Army, has been impressed with Jason’s form in Argyle’s opening two pre-season friendlies.

Jason did not score in Saturday’s 2-2 draw at Weymouth after spectacularly opening his account in the previous midweek’s 5-1 win at Tavistock. In fact, he missed the most open of open goals – but that was about all he did wrong in a scintillating display.

“He’s looked sharp all pre-season and his work-ethic is very good at the moment,” said John. “He’s come back a different player and he’s showing that in the way he’s training and the way he’s playing.

“He can be a really big player for us, if he’s on his game; he can be one of the best players in the division. That’s something I’ve got to try and get out of him.”

Jason has enjoyed a topsy-turvy time in the Green. His initial spell at Home Park in 2012-13, on loan from Crystal Palace, saw him produce a string of performances that did as much as anything to help Argyle retain their Football League status.

He returned to the Theatre of Greens – this time on a permanent deal – earlier this year, but failed to spark.

“He was in and out of the team,” said John. “I didn’t feel he was the same player he was when I had him on loan.  I think I’ve got him to what he was when first came to the club.

“If we’ve got that, we’ve got a very good player.”