Position Of Strength

JOHN Sheridan is pleased to see his Argyle squad nearly at full strength ahead of the customary busy Christmas period.

Following the upcoming visit of York City, the Pilgrims will play five games in 22 days during December, including a trip to Newport County on Boxing Day before returning to Home Park to play Oxford United two days later.

Sheridan is confident that players who picked up small knocks last time out against Mansfield Town will be fit for Saturday’s game against the Minstermen and beyond, joined shortly after by a couple of long-term absentees in the form of Matt Lecointe and Ben Purrington.

“One or two have got little knocks, but hopefully everyone will be okay, and we will just assess them again tomorrow in training,” said John.

“Hopefully we will have a strong team and carry on the form we have been showing at home.

On the subject of returning players like Lecointe, Purrington and Jason Banton, Sheridan said: “They add to the squad and strengthen us, and for the players who play in their position, they know that there are players waiting to push them. They have got to keep showing the form that they have shown.

“It is important now – with the Christmas period coming – that we have got to get everyone involved and ready to play if required.

“It is usually around this time that games are close to each other. There are injuries and suspensions, so to keep everyone fit is very important.”