Centre Point

Though the Irishman has been successful in a number of areas of the field at previous clubs, Graham has started all three of the Greens’ pre-season games so far in an attacking, central midfield position, as well as leading the way with set-piece duties.

A corner from Carey was headed home by Ryan Brunt as the Pilgrims raced out to a 3-0 lead before the hosts rallied to level things up, and the midfielder is pleased to be able to add his creative touch to the team’s new setup.

“I prefer playing centrally than being out in wide areas,” said Graham. “I like to get on the ball, create, and put a shift in for the team defensively, as well. It’s a role that I’m enjoying.

“That’s what pre-season is for: getting used to new systems. It’s good to get used to the new formations and the style of play that the manager wants. I think that come the start of the season, we’ll be ready.”

That being said, Carey is far from focused on purely his own performances, and will be working hard with the rest of the team to be more defensively sound after letting a three-goal lead slip at Twerton Park. 

“As a team, we need to work harder,” said Graham, “and we need to be better defensively – it’s not just about scoring goals. 

“We need to do better because offensively, we’re a real threat and we’ll cause every team in this league problems.”