Tom Cleverley has admitted that he is putting the pressure on himself to succeed at Plymouth Argyle and turn around the club’s fortunes, beginning with today’s clash with Huddersfield Town.
Argyle currently sits 22nd in the League One table, with just 13 points from their opening 14 matches.
Cleverley Looking To Change The Narrative
Plymouth Argyle endured an awful October, losing 3 of their 4 fixtures, including the Devon derby to Exeter City. That dismal display has been followed by defeat to Mansfield Town and an exit from the FA Cup at the hands of Wycombe Wanderers.
Those results have led to the pressure growing on the former Watford manager, who insists he is doing all he can to turn it round.
“I put a lot of pressure on myself. I want to change the narrative of this club – it’s a fanbase that’s been used to losing for two-and-a-half years. I dedicate my life to turning that around. I feel the pressure every day, and I’m working night and day to put things right.”
Argyle have been unable to string a consistent run of results together. Cleverley’s side had a poor August before showing signs of improvement throughout September. Since beating Burton Albion on the last weekend of September, Plymouth have lost 4 out of 5 in all competitions.
The manager admits last month was a tough one to take but one they cannot escape from.
“There’s no hiding from how poor October was.”
“Losing your local derby the way we did made it worse. I’m the first one buried under that snowball, and now it’s about gathering everyone to push it back in the other direction.”
Recovery Starts With Huddersfield
Goalkeeper Conor Hazard and striker Lorent Tolaj were seen having discussions with angry fans following the FA Cup loss to Wycombe, highlighting how tensions have grown between the players and fans.
Cleverley is desperate for all at the club to reconnect, believing that to be the key to success.
“The only way to fix that is through hard work and performance.”“Every successful club is united – players, supporters, board, staff – and we have to reconnect. That comes from passion, but it also comes from winning football matches.”
Looking ahead to the clash with the Terriers, the former Manchester United midfielder believes a positive start is crucial.
“The first goal will be huge.”“We need to start fast, be on the front foot, and not hold anything back. We’ve got to show fight, confidence, and belief.”“Confidence and psychology are massive.”“These players haven’t suddenly become bad overnight. They just need belief and maybe a clean sheet to kickstart everything again.”
Is Time Running Out?
With just 4 league wins from 14, there is a possibility that Plymouth Argyle could be bottom of League One by this evening.
With expectations in pre-season including promotion back to the Championship, this season has so far been a disaster. Both of the sides below Argyle have replaced their managers, so the big question is, how long does Tom Cleverley have left?
