Christmas Is Coming

ARGYLE manager John Sheridan expects to utilise the majority of his first-team squad over the busy turn-of-year period.

That is good news for players who have watched from the sidelines as the Pilgrims’ largely settled side has enjoyed a four-match unbeaten run, some of who featured in a midweek development squad 1-0 victory over Torquay United.

“I’m leaving out people who aren’t even getting on the bench,” said John. “Everyone is biting at the bit, and I understand that. The ones who aren’t playing want to play. There’s nothing worse than training and not getting any football on a Saturday.

“The reserves had a good game in the week and I thought one or two of them did really well. It was a good test. They need football-time because Christmas is coming up and there will be suspensions and injuries, lots of games in a short period, so I need everyone fit and ready.

“You can’t beat a match situation. You need to be playing in matches

Midfielder Andres Gurrieri, who has been a substitute in most of Argyle’s games this season since returning from a pre-season injury, scored a pearler of a winner in that match.

John said: “He’s not a really brightened a game when he’s come on as sub, which I’d expect him to do. I’ve spoken to him. But I thought he played well on Tuesday and scored brilliant goal.

“All I can say to him is ‘Keep working hard and, when your time comes…’

“Andres did well for me last year. He played a big part, especially at home. He’s a ball-carrier and he keeps the ball. He take those extra touches, which is good because it just slows things down – sometimes he takes too many touches.

“It’s been difficult for him. He was flying first thing in pre-season, then he got an injury and was playing catch-up.

“They are all wanting to play. There is northing worse when you’re not playing and you’re training day in and day out. I’ve been there. I had it towards the end of my career, when I thought I should still be playing and the manager wouldn’t pick me.

“It’s not a nice thing to happen.

“More than any time, this time, when the games are coming thick and fast, they will get an opportunity, get in the side, and hopefully show me they can do a job for us.”