Lonwijk's Wycombe Preview

Thursday marked two months to the day that Nigel Lonwijk signed on as a Pilgrim, and the 19-year-old Dutchman is already feeling very at home at Home Park.

On loan from Wolverhampton Wanderers, defender Nigel has played 11 times, starting three games, since his arrival, and has impressed with a series of assured performances in the Argyle back-line.

He credits his team-mates and the Green Army for helping him to settle, with particular praise to the vociferous home support that helped Argyle to a 2-1 win over Ipswich Town on Sunday, a win which put The Pilgrims on top of Sky Bet League One.

Nigel said: “It pushed the whole team to get a goal, and get another goal, and get the win. The fans helped us a lot with it. It’s a confidence boost. The support always helps.

“You feel very at home when you play here. No-one really wants to come here, because our fans keep going for 90 minutes.

“I’m just happy that I am playing games, playing 90 minutes every time. I feel good in the games.

“The intensity is different to what I am used to. I’m getting used to it, and I feel fitter every game. The defence help me, and so do the other boys in the team.”

Against Ipswich, Nigel lined up on the left-hand side of the back three, which is slightly different to where the right-foot defender has been playing, but he still put in a solid display in a victory that maintained Argyle’s 100% home league record this season.

The switch, he said, was something he took in his stride, and also spoke how he enjoys playing alongside Bali Mumba and Joe Edwards, Argyle’s two wing-backs, who themselves are frequently employed on either flank.

“It’s different [playing on the left] but I don’t really mind it because I can always come inside on my right foot if I have to. I’ll play wherever the gaffer needs me.

“[Joe and Bali] help me out a lot because they always want the ball, always make the runs. They are the players that create the most chances for us, they are doing really well. I’ve played with Bali the most, and I think we’ve got a good connection. That feels good. Joe is a different player, but I have a connection with him too.”

On Saturday, Argyle head to Wycombe Wanderers, a side The Pilgrims have found it tough to play against in recent seasons. Nigel says he has been clued in on what to expect, and is looking forward to the contest.

“I’ve heard from the boys that they are a physical team, it will be a tough game,” said Nigel. “I think you have to like it, or else you won’t survive. I don’t mind it. I’m up for it.”