Gyabi looking to make up for lost time

Darko Gyabi has nothing but positives to say about his time at Home Park last season – and now he returns looking to make up for lost time. 

The 20-year-old has rejoined the Pilgrims on a season-long loan from fellow Sky Bet Championship side Leeds United, having spent time with Argyle earlier in the year.  

His campaign last season was curtailed after only 10 appearances following a groin strain, which saw him return to his parent club for recovery. Now, Gyabi is excited to be back at Argyle and take to the pitch in front of the Green Army. 

“I think it made sense [to return] because I feel like I've got unfinished business in terms of how the season ended for me with the injury,” Darko said. “I know the people here. I know some of the players as well. It was a no-brainer for me. 

“It all happened so quickly. I thought I could have played through the pain, but when I went to see the people who knew what they were doing, they said there was no chance. I had to listen to my body and make the right decision, but I think it's all worked out well because now I'm back here fit and strong, and ready for the season. 

“I feel like [last season] was good for me because I matured more as a player. I think it's just the excitement of playing week-in, week-out in front of these fans. 

“You want to run, you want to work hard and, for me, it's just about helping the team, learning from the manager now and learning from the players around me. I think that's the most important thing.” 

Despite having to depart Argyle before the season concluded, Gyabi featured among those in the crowd for the away victory over Rotherham United and admitted that it was difficult to watch on from the sidelines, saying: “It was tough. I feel like it's easier when you're playing to keep your nerves in but when you're watching, you have no control.  

“I went to watch the Rotherham game and I was happy when we scored early, but even that was tough as well because you just never know. It's football so anything can happen, but I'm so glad that we got it done and stayed up.” 

When pre-season gets under way, Gyabi will be playing alongside some familiar personalities, but also under new Head Coach Wayne Rooney, which he is reveling in. 

“I'm excited,” Darko said. “I feel like he's got so much knowledge from playing. For me as a midfielder – I know he wasn't an out-and-out midfielder, but he could play there - I'm going to be asking him questions, how I can improve, and things that I can take from him. 

“I think it's easy [coming back] because you don't have to settle back in or anything, just straight into it and focus on the main thing, which is football. 

“I'm good, feeling strong and ready. I'm just excited because obviously at the end of my rehab, I had to build up again and get stronger, run, everything like that.  

“Everything's good now, I'm good.” 

You can watch the return interview with Darko Gyabi now on Argyle TV.