Trust in the Players

DESPITE the departure of Head of Football Derek Adams and assistant Paul Wotton earlier in the week, first-team coach Kevin Nancekivell is not planning to reinvent the wheel for the Pilgrims’ do or die Sky Bet League One clash with Scunthorpe on Saturday.

Argyle are required to better the result of one of Southend or Wimbledon, while at least matching that of Walsall and Scunthorpe, if they are to avoid relegation on the weekend. With that in mind, it might be tempting for interim boss Nancekivell to make wholesale changes – but he has faith in his squad to deliver.

“The squad is what the squad is. We’ve got a squad of good players, which isn’t reflected in our league position, I really believe that,” said Nancekivell. “There’s not going to be massive changes, because I trust in these players to get us out of the position we’re in.”

Much has been made of the back-room changes this week, but, as far as Nance is concerned, Argyle’s destiny will be controlled by all Pilgrims collectively, rather than his tactics alone.

“It’s about the players, it’s not about any individual, it’s just making sure that their minds are clear and positive,” said Nancekivell. “The support we’ve had around the football club has been fantastic, from in and around the city, the supporters have been superb as well. They’re in a good place, and we can bring that to show on Saturday.”

Nancekivell will be supported in the technical area on Saturday by goalkeeping coach Rhys Wilmot, whose wisdom will be important as the Greens attempt to haul themselves through the 50-point barrier.

“Rhys has been a fantastic help, his experience has come to the fore this week for us,” said Nancekivell. “He’s a calming influence on the sideline, and hopefully, together, we’ll get the result that we need to keep us in League One next season.”

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