Royal Standard

Reading attacker Craig, 20, has arrived at Home Park on loan from Championship side Reading until next January’s transfer window.

Like fellow loanee, Crystal Palace midfielder Hiram Boateng – who made his first Argyle appearance against Craig when the Royals’ Under-21 side visited Plymouth for a pre-season friendly – big things are expected of the Camberley-born forward. 

Derek said: “As with Hiram, we have got another one in with a good pedigree in that both their clubs have got high hopes for them.”

Craig’s first match-day experience as a Pilgrim, when Sky Bet League 2 kicks off on Saturday, will be in familiar environments after a 16-game loan spell last season at the home of Argyle’s opening-day opponents. 

“He played at Wimbledon last year, so he knows the league,” said Derek, 

“He’s quick; and he’s got goals in him. He can play anywhere along the front line – left, right or central – or wide in a four, so there are plenty of options with him.”

Craig’s performance against Argyle for Reading’s development side caught the eye of the Green Army, and reaffirmed what Derek already knew about the player who is under contract at the Madejski Stadium until the summer of 2017.

“We knew about him before,” he said. “The match was as much about the players from Reading being able to have a look at us.

“We are delighted to have him at Home Park and I look forward to working with him.”