Individuals Giving Options

VERSATILITY is a word often used in the football world, the ability to play is multiple positions is key in an age of ever-changing formations and innovative ideas. Joe Edwards is a man who knows a thing or two about playing all over the football pitch.

Edwards is equally capable in both his more natural defensive midfield role and at right wing-back and he has shared both duties this season for Argyle, giving manager Ryan Lowe plenty of options for today’s home meeting with Mansfield Town.

Joe said: “It’s something I’ve been used to for my whole career, I think I’ve played near enough every position apart from striker, which I’m still working on!

“I’ve got used to it [playing multiple positions], some people see that as a negative sometimes because I haven’t been able to hold down one position. I believe as long as I’m able to do a job for the team, I’m happy to play in different roles.

“There’s different sides to both positions, positive and negative but we’ve got lads who can come in and play these roles. Josh Grant has come in the middle and done fantastic and Ty (Tyreeq Bakinson) equally.

“I get in the box a lot more and more chances at right wing-back, it’s where I’ve scored my goals from this year. In midfield, you’re generally involved more consistently, so there’s not really a preferred position, as long as I’m doing a good job for the team I’m happy.”

Such is the versatility of the squad as a whole, Joe believes the competition for places has increased, allowing no time for slacking. 

“It brings the levels up [competition for places], you can’t just turn up for training and expect to play. You’ve got to perform day in, day out.

“We’ve got a talented and versatile squad, we’ve probably got two players in each position, which is a benefit. We’re playing well at moment and I think that stems from players challenging each other and bringing the best out of each other.”