Plymouth Argyle are hopeful that Spanish defender Julio Pleguezuelo will soon return to training after a pre-season injury setback.
The centre-back has yet to feature in any of the Pilgrims’ warm-up matches this summer, but Tom Cleverley has provided a cautious update ahead of the League One season.
Cleverley Offers Optimism Over Defender’s Recovery
Pleguezuelo missed the early stages of Argyle’s pre-season camp in Austria due to a knee problem but rejoined the squad partway through. He has since watched from the sidelines as Plymouth fell to a narrow defeat against Eintracht Braunschweig and then edged out Truro City in a 3-2 win.
Head coach Cleverley has revealed the defender required a minor injection and is now waiting for swelling in the knee to subside before a return to action is considered. He refused to offer a specific timeframe but ruled out anything long-term.
“He had a small injection in his knee and now we are just waiting for that to settle. I’m afraid I can’t give you any timescales on that but we are hoping days, and we expect no longer than weeks, certainly not in the territory of months with that one,” Cleverley explained.
Crucial Return as Season Opener Looms
Argyle kick off their League One campaign in just over a fortnight, with Barnsley visiting Home Park on Saturday, August 2. The absence of experienced central defenders has placed increased emphasis on Pleguezuelo’s return, especially after his consistent contributions since arriving from FC Twente in 2023.
The former Arsenal and Barcelona youth player signed a new contract with Plymouth earlier this year, committing his future to the club until the summer of 2027. Since his arrival, he has made 52 starts and 12 appearances from the bench, becoming a key part of the back line in both Championship and League One campaigns.
His leadership and composure have made him a favourite among supporters, and Cleverley will be eager to have him back fully fit as the club prepares for what they hope will be a promotion push following last season’s relegation.
Writer’s View
Julio Pleguezuelo’s absence is a frustrating blow during a crucial period of pre-season preparation. While Tom Cleverley has done well to keep spirits high and momentum building, the lack of defensive depth could prove costly without reinforcements or timely recoveries.
With Talovierov now gone and fixtures fast approaching, Pleguezuelo’s experience and positional sense will be vital. His return will not only stabilise the defence but also give Cleverley the flexibility to develop a more progressive style with a solid base behind it. If he can shake off the swelling and return in the coming days, it will be one of the most welcome boosts of Argyle’s pre-season.
