Filling In, Moving On

The Argyle manager saw a Pilgrims’ side with Reuben Reid and Hiram Boateng slink out of the FA Cup at the weekend but preferred to blame the exit on the absence of performance, rather than performers.

“We have played really well when we have had to cope with injuries earlier this season,” said Derek. “Reuben has missed several games; this was the first one that Boateng has missed; and we have missed the likes of [Carl] McHugh, [Gary] Sawyer, [Graham] Carey, [Gregg] Wylde and [Jake] Jervis and we still have managed to win games. 

“I have got a very good squad at this point in time. We have started the season well, the way that we have played, and we have been able to handle the small squad we have. It’s been very good. 

“We’ve got to try to progress to the next round of the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy and we know it’s going to be tough but that’s what we’re in the competition to do. We’ve got to try to win the game and get to a semi-final.”