Plymouth Argyle attacker Caleb Watts is facing a long time on the sidelines, manager Tom Cleverley has confirmed.
This comes after the 23-year-old was taken off in Aygyle’s 3-2 win at Luton Town on Saturday.
Downside To A Good Start
Watts has been a standout performer in what has been a tough season so far for the Pilgrims. Despite the team’s struggles, the versatile 22-year-old Australian forward has been influential in most matches, showcasing his vision and ability to create chances. With two goals thus far, Watts has been a bright spot, bringing creativity and composure to Argyle’s attack, which they have lacked a clinical edge. After sustaining an injury which saw him substituted only four minutes into the game on Saturday, manager Tom Cleverley has announced the injury will require surgery and sideline him for four months. His absence in the meantime will leave a hole in Plymouth’s lineup, as Plymouth look to get an immediate return to the second tier.
Short Of Attacking Options
Plymouth Argyle was already facing somewhat of a shortage up front, now following Watts four-month injury. The Australian attacker’s absence will now strain their attacking options. Manager Tom Cleverley heavily emphasised the summer signing of striker Lorent Tolaj from Port Vale to address this, with the £1.2 million forward’s two goals in five games offering hope. However, with limited depth beyond Tolaj, Argyle’s push for a prompt return to the second tier could hinge on avoiding further injuries to their thin frontline.
Cleverleys Response
In an interview with PlymouthLive, Cleverly said:
“Bad news I’m afraid. The same as Xav really, needs hamstring surgery. It will be the best part of four months.”
It’s something that was always the question mark over Caleb. Can he be consistent in terms of how many appearances he plays, how many minutes he plays.
“We all know he’s a good player and he has got really good qualities, especially for how I want to play, but the question mark has always been can he repeat that over and over, and unfortunately, his body has broken down.
“We will review is there anything we could have done to make sure that didn’t happen, or doesn’t happen again? Disappointed for him. He will be a miss, his character, his strong mentality and I wish him all the best in his rehab.”
Writers View
Watts’ four-month injury is a nightmare scenario for Plymouth Argyle after an intriguing summer. Losing the attacker early in the season could prove pivotal, testing the depth of Tom Cleverley’s squad and threatening their hopes of an immediate return to the Championship.
