Injuries are stacking up for Plymouth Argyle as Tom Cleverley’s reign teeters on the brink of collapse.
The Pilgrims have largely been off of the pace this season, and deservedly sit inside the League One relegation places ahead of a midweek trip to Mansfield Town. Pressure from the fanbase has started to build up, and questions are being asked of both board and manager heading into a crucial November with matches against promotion contenders as well as the first round of the FA Cup.
Key Players Now Doubts
Argyle already knew that they would be without Matty Sorinola heading up to Field Mill, after the wing-back picked up his 5th yellow card of the season, triggering an automatic one-game suspension. However, Tom Cleverley has issued a full injury report, confirming that 3 players are likely to be missing due to injury issues.
Posted on the club’s social media as part of his pre-match press conference, the former Watford boss said:
“Matty Sorinola is suspended, Alex Mitchell is having some time away for personal reasons, Ayman Benarous has suffered a freak training injury, and Joe Edwards and Bradley Ibrahim are doubts for tomorrow.”
All but Benarous played in the Devon Derby loss to Exeter City on Thursday night, with the former Bristol City defender not making the matchday squad at St James Park. On top of existing injuries to Julio Pleguezuelo and Caleb Watts, it leaves Plymouth fairly threadbare in terms of quality depth in their squad.
Now Or Never For Cleverley
With pressure now mounting from the fanbase, Cleverley now needs to deliver against a Mansfield side that have looked fairly strong all season. With mounting injuries in his squad, the former Everton midfielder may find his hands tied in terms of team selection, and could indeed prompt a change in formation.
He has spoken in the past about building defensive solidity to see his side through games, and indeed there have been flickers of promise with their statement win over Burton Albion a highlight in an otherwise dour season. However, if he is unable to get results and bring about a marked improvement in performances, Cleverley could find himself on the chopping block.
