Plymouth Argyle have received a major lift with Xavier Amaechi and Julio Pleguezuelo set to return for this weekend’s clash with Northampton Town
Plymouth Argyle’s season has been defined by long injury lists and disrupted line ups, but head coach Tom Cleverley can finally call on reinforcements as Xavier Amaechi and Julio Pleguezuelo near full fitness. Their return arrives ahead of a crucial spell in League One that could shape the club’s trajectory heading into the new year.
Long term absentees ready to rejoin the squad
Winger Xavier Amaechi has been sidelined since late August after suffering a significant hamstring injury in training, ending a promising start following his arrival from FC Magdeburg. The 24-year-old featured in the first five league matches and was expected to be a key attacking outlet for Plymouth Argyle, wearing the number 10 shirt and contributing creativity in support of Lorent Tolaj.
His return offers Cleverley a much needed attacking option as the club look to build momentum in League One.
🗞️ TEAM NEWS:
Xavier Amaechi and Julio Pleguezuelo are set to return to the squad as substitutes in their home game on Saturday against Northampton Town after suffering long term injuries!#pafc pic.twitter.com/OJmkeMTXOg— Argyle News Hub (@PAFCNewsHub) November 25, 2025
Defender Julio Pleguezuelo is also set to be included after a lengthy absence caused by knee surgery. The Spaniard has not featured competitively since a 2-1 win at Preston North End in April, having suffered setbacks during pre season before ultimately requiring an operation. His leadership and tactical intelligence will strengthen a defensive unit that has been stretched heavily during a demanding opening to the campaign for Plymouth Argyle.
The timely boost comes as club captain Joe Edwards made his own return in the recent win over Port Vale. Edwards had missed four weeks with a calf issue but is expected to be available to start against Northampton Town, bringing further depth to a side that has been forced to reshuffle regularly throughout the early stages of the League One season.
Cleverley hopes squad depth will support survival push
The return of key personnel arrives at an important moment for Plymouth Argyle, who face seven matches before the end of December, including five at Home Park. Cleverley has repeatedly highlighted the strain caused by injuries, especially after Bradley Ibrahim’s long term ankle problem and Ayman Benarous suffering a setback only minutes into his comeback.
The arrival of two players who have been absent for months provides crucial options in both attacking and defensive areas heading into a pivotal run of League One fixtures.
Having Xavier Amaechi and Julio Pleguezuelo available to be among the substitutes for Argyle’s next game against Northampton after long-term injuries will feel like having two new signings for Tom Cleverley.
Read More: ⬇️ #pafc https://t.co/pDJNy6JL3f— Chris Errington (@ChrisErrington1) November 25, 2025
Amaechi’s pace and direct running could reduce the pressure on striker Lorent Tolaj, who has carried much of the goal scoring burden with nine goals in a struggling side. Opposition teams have increasingly focused on limiting Tolaj’s space, and Cleverley will hope that Amaechi’s creativity can help stretch defences and produce better service for Plymouth Argyle in the final third of League One matches.
Meanwhile, Pleguezuelo’s experience and composure will bolster a defence that has lacked continuity. His commitment to the club, highlighted by a new contract signed earlier this year, has made him a popular figure among supporters, and his return to full availability will provide valuable competition for places across the back line at Plymouth Argyle.
With Northampton Town visiting Home Park on Saturday, Cleverley finally has the opportunity to select from a deeper and more balanced squad. After months of managing setbacks, the head coach will view the next few weeks as a chance to pull clear of the bottom end of the table and steer Plymouth Argyle toward a stronger position heading into the second half of the League One season.
