John Lucas has returned to Argyle, as the club’s new on-pitch physical performance coach.
John was previously at Home Park under manager Ryan Lowe, joining the Pilgrims from Bury alongside Lowe in 2019, and was part of the support staff during Argyle’s promotion in 2019/20.
Lucas departed in 2021, for Salford City, and later went on to rejoin Lowe at Preston North End as head of physical performance. He then spent some time in Australia with Perth Glory, and now returns to England for a second stint with the Greens.
“It was a no-brainer for me,” John told Argyle TV. “I think people that know me know what I thought of the place. It's a special club, special city. Very unique, especially when you've been to a few other football clubs. I’m excited to be back.
“I'd say I've certainly evolved professionally [in] five years.
“I think, culturally, being in Australia as well has changed me as a person as well. I've got a little bit older, a little bit wiser.
“I've experienced different managers, different cultures, different philosophies; you take little bits from everyone, and evolve that into your own philosophy.
“[Head Coach Tom Cleverley] is part of the reason why I've come. I sat with him for a couple of hours and was really, really impressed with his methodology, with how he came across, with how he wants to work, how he sees the staff within that system of his philosophy, his wider football philosophy, and how our relationship would be.”
“I am very pleased John has joined us,” said Cleverley. “John’s role is to support the wider medical and performance team, and his excellent track record shows him to be a perfect person to bring in.
“We have recognised that player availability was an issue within the squad last season, so we have moved to bring in an experienced figure to hopefully improve that going forward.
“The addition of John to the team, alongside Gareth Law and Connor Derbidge, enhances our performance team as we begin pre-season training this week.”
You can see an interview with John Lucas right now, exclusively on Argyle TV.
