Plain to See

The 26-year-old forward made the short journey up a division and down the Devon Expressway from Torquay United to sign for the Pilgrims who are, of course, in the final stages of preparations for Sunday’s FA Cup third-round tie at Liverpool.

Nathan, 26, has already had first-hand experience of his new team-mates this season, having faced them in a pre-season friendly at Plainmoor in July.

Remembering the game on his first day at Home Park, he said: “I felt like I was very strong, reaching the levels I want to be – I might remind some of the boys about that game. It was a good game; a good test against very good opposition.”

Argyle manager Derek Adams concurs with his new signing’s memory.

“He played well on that day,” said Derek. “We looked at him last season, and this season we have watched a few games and kept an eye on him. He’s done really well at times for them and we see good potential in him. 

“He’s got a good physical presence; he’s good in the air; and can score goals playing at our level. We have got a lot of talented individuals who create goals, so hopefully that can help him.”

The switch of Devon teams comes after a year of contrasts with the Gulls.

Nathan said: “When I went there, they were on a downer, fighting relegation, and it was a sink or swim situation. I felt, with the pressure, I found a lot of form. I flourished and we went on a crazy run and managed to stave off relegation.

“This year, it has been a different project. Basically, we started from fresh again and it hasn’t really gelled as yet. There’s definitely signs of them being a good team.”

Nathan is a Liverpool fan, but will not be considered for Sunday’s visit to Merseyside because he has already played in this year’s competition for Torquay, but could feel the buzz around Home Park when he arrived on Thursday.

“I’ve kind of crept in the through the back door because all the hype has been on the trip to Anfield, which is great,” he said. “I’m happy that Plymouth are able to showcase themselves on that front. 

“I’m here now to do a job, and that’s what I’m going to do to the best of my abilities.”

Nathan is the second Pilgrim incomer of the January transfer window, following 24 hours after the arrival for former Southend United defender Jakub Sokolik.

Derek said: “We are delighted to have him on board. He is a central defender who is aggressive; good with the ball at his feet; and is good in the air. We just wanted to add someone to that area.

“Nathan is 26, Jakub is 23, and they have both got experience of playing with teams in this league and the National League. It is important they have that aspect.”