Mark Hughes Signs Contract Extension
Argyle assistant manager Mark Hughes has signed a new contract.
Hughes has agreed a new deal lasting until 2027, in line with the contract recently signed by manager Steven Schumacher.
Hughes joined Argyle, initially as a coach, in January 2022, a month after Schumacher’s appointment as Argyle manager, leaving Bristol Rovers, where he had been a player/coach.
On Keith Downing’s departure in May, Hughes stepped into the role of Schumacher’s assistant, continuing an association that has permeated both men’s footballing career.
Steven and Mark both cut their teeth as young players at Everton, under the guidance of Neil Dewsnip, who is now Argyle’s Director of Football.
Schumacher and Hughes were later teammates at Bury and Stevenage, with centre-back Mark also playing for Northampton, Walsall, North Queensland Fury, Morecambe and Accrington Stanley.
“I’m delighted that Mark – like Steven recently – has agreed a new contract,” said Dewnsip. “I’m really pleased with his progress as an individual.
“As a youngster, he always had a great insight into the game, and his opinions have matured over the years. Argyle’s first team are now getting the benefits of those insights.
“Mark and Steven work really well together as a duo. I think we have seen the rewards from that this season. We have a very tight team, also including Darren Behcet and Kevin Nancekivell.
“I look forward to more progress from Mark on the future.”
Another new addition to the Argyle backroom team is Gareth Law, who joins as Head of Physiotherapy.
Law previous spent time with Argyle as a physio, between 2018 and 2019, before moving on to become Head of Physiotherapy at Exeter City, a role he left last month.
Gareth, the father of Argyle left wing-back Ryan Law, was a professional himself, playing for Torquay, before later joining their physio team, and stayed with the Gulls for over a decade, rising to Head of Sports Medicine and Science.
Gareth replaces Nick Fulton, who departs Home Park with our best wishes.
“We welcome Gareth to Argyle as Head Physiotherapist, replacing Nick Fulton, who we thank for his service to the club,” said Dewsnip.
“Gareth is very experienced, and I am looking forward to working together with him.”
We are pleased to formally welcome several new additions to the backroom staff of thew Argyle Academy.
George Roberts joins as Head of Academy Operations; Emma Potter becomes Head of Player Care; Matt Ellery takes a role as Foundation Phase Lead Coach; and Erin Spiller becomes Head of Academy Medical.
Academy Manager Phil Stokes said: "We are pleased to add Emma, Erin, Matt and George to our Academy staff over the last two months following a thorough recruitment process - all these positions are vital for the development of the Academy moving forward."
