Tanner in the Works

The on-loan winger, signed by Derek Adams from Reading just before the season began, is known for his all-action performances, usually from a wide-right position, and explained that he feels a duty to not let his standards slip. 

“Playing football is a dream job for anyone," said Craig. "The more you play the more you can enjoy it, but I’ve had to work hard and I think I’ll have to work even harder to hopefully keep my place. 

“I pride myself on my work rate. I know Kelv [Mellor] is going to help me when I attack so I think it’s only fair if I help him when we defend. We work as a unit and do a lot of defensive shapes. The natural side of my game is attacking but I’m working hard on my defensive side to hopefully bring that to the team."

The Camberley born player has scored some stunning goals this season, which is another aspect of his game he is happy with. However, he still feels he would like to be putting more balls in the back of the net. He said: “I think I’ve scored a few more memorable goals but I wouldn’t mind a couple more tap ins otherwise people might expect the memorable ones too often.”

Craig's loan is scheduled to end in January, but Tanner does not see the need to return to being a Royal just yet. “I’m more than happy here at the moment," he said. "But you never know what can happen.

“I still think I need to prove myself and prove my warrant to the team. It’s down to Plymouth and Reading to sort out and obviously if the gaffer thinks I’m a viable member to hopefully keep on. 

"At the moment I’m really enjoying myself.”