Garita's Greetings

The powerful striker, signed on loan on last Wednesday’s transfer deadline day, was on the bench for Argyle’s home game against Cheltenham on Saturday, but made a swift impact. 

Introduced from the sidelines on 53 minutes, Arnie used his not inconsiderable frame to good effect, and was part of a strong second-half Pilgrims performance that concluded with Sonny Bradley’s injury-time winner.

It was only Garita’s second appearance England. The 21-year-old Cameroonian striker moved to Bristol City in January, having spent three seasons in France playing for Chateauroux. His sole appearance for City was as a second-half substitute in the Robin’s EFL Cup victory against Wycombe in early August. 

“It was an amazing feeling,” said Arnie, of his Argyle bow. “With Bristol City I used to play in the under-21s, so this felt like my first professional game. I really enjoyed it. 

“I wasn’t expecting to come into the team that quick. It was nice that the manager counted on me to play in this team. I want to say thanks to the gaffer and club for bringing me here. 

“The team was doing a really good job already, on the pitch. It was easy to come in; it was a good sensation to be part of on my first game. I was surprised at how fast the rhythm is in League Two, compared to in France. 

“You never know what can happen in the future. I hope I can impress the manager to prolong my contract until the end of the season.”

Arnie’s English vocabulary is a little limited at this stage, but is being helped at Home Park by Yann Songo’o. Yann – French born and bred, with Cameroonian heritage – is a fellow Francophone, and assisted Arnie in his media duties. 

“It is great to have someone from the same country,” said Arnie. “when you have to get used to new players and a new team. It is great to have someone who can speak French and help me along. 

“It is difficult, but when you are a professional footballer you need to be able to go everywhere and do your best, wherever you go.”

Arnie has obviously made a quick impression on Yann, who was quick to praise his latest team-mate. 

“He’s a really good player – a really strong player,” said Yann. “He helped us a lot [against Cheltenham], as he has played against some really strong teams. We have strikers who do an amazing job, but an extra man will help us have something different in the team.

“I think he has a really big future here in England; the football will suit him really well. I think the fans will love him.”