Worker Ant

ANTHONY O’Connor was tasked with playing in yet another position for Argyle against York City...

...and the Irishman passed the defensive test with flying colours, according to his manager.

Anthony was predominantly seen as a centre-back upon his loan move from Blackburn to Home Park in August, but has been deployed as a central midfielder, holding midfielder and a right-wing back during the season, consistently putting in good performances and adapting to a new role.

The 22-year-old dropped into his natural centre-back spot for the Sky Bet League 2 visit of the Minstermen, and therefore watched from a longer distance than usual as his side took the lead in the third minute, with Bobby Reid’s cross-come-shot taking a fortunate deflection and dropping into the far corner of the net to put the Pilgrims in front.

The Greens’ run of nearly ten hours without conceding a goal at home was ended by a last-minute equaliser for York, as Jake Hyde stretched out a leg whilst on the ground to poke home from a free-kick and ensuing goalmouth scramble.

“[Anthony] can play in a few positions - he is a confident lad, as well,” said John. “He is only young but he is a winner, and he wants to do really well. I knew he could play there. That is his preferred position, probably.”

The reason for the change-up was down to an injury for Carl McHugh, who has been at the heart of Argyle’s defence since Sheridan switched to a 3-5-2 formation against Swindon Town at the beginning of October.

“He has got a bit of a tight calf; he has had it for two or three weeks,” said Sheridan. “I think he would have played today, if it was up to him but I think it is just a case of resting him and getting a bit of treatment because he has had it for a few weeks now.

“I brought him off last week; he did not ask to come off, but he was struggling a little bit. He’s had a week’s rest and it’s much better, so hopefully he will be back soon.”

Forward Marvin Morgan was also missing from the Pilgrims squad.

“He had a scan on his hamstring and he’s probably going to be out for two weeks,” said John.