Painstaking

Despite with having to deal with injuries both before and during the match against Hartlepool United, the Greens still provided a winning performance to see off their opposition 2-0 Home Park, thanks to goals from Marvin Morgan and Nathan Thomas.

However, after star striker Reuben Reid picked up an injury that required him to be replaced for the second half, Peter Hartley was also forced to come off, joining Jason Banton and Deane Smalley in the physio’s room. 

"We will just have to assess them - obviously it looked as though they were struggling,” said Sheridan, on the subject of Reuben and Peter. 

“They both look like similar injuries. Luckily we do not have a game during the week, so we will get them the best treatment, and hope that it is not a big concern.

“Jason is out for a month with a groin injury. He had a similar injury last season – I think he got it at Dagenham – and he was out for about three weeks. 

“Smalley’s just got a spasm in his back. Obviously there is not a lot you can do when you get a bad back. Smalley’s slowly improving, but he had no chance for the game today.

"I will have to keep my fingers crossed it is not too serious." 

If the injuries do keep any of Sheridan’s men out of action for a long period of time, the manager is already putting together a contingency plan, stating that he expects at least one loan signing to join the club before Argyle’s next game, away to Accrington Stanley.

John continued: “I have enquired, and I am hoping a player will come in next week. I am looking for two or three players. 

“I am going to watch a game on Tuesday, so we will see what happens. You have just got to keep persevering, looking around and trying to get players who are going to be beneficial to us, and want to play football."