Plymouth hope to strengthen squad

Last updated : 26 January 2010 By BBC Sport

Plymouth Argyle boss Paul Mariner says he hopes to strengthen his squad after the Championship side had their transfer embargo lifted last week.Argyle were placed under the embargo in December due to unpaid debts which are believed to have been settled.

Mariner told BBC South West: "We think we can add to the squad to help them along and get where we want to be.

"We're working hard. It's not as easy as people think just to get people in and out but we have a list."

Since replacing Paul Sturrock as manager on 10 December, Mariner's side lost their first two games but are now unbeaten in their last three and are now just two points from safety with a game in hand over Reading.

And the Argyle boss believes the team spirit at the club is having a positive impact on performances.

FA Cups always bring upsets and we hope to be one

Paul Mariner

"The resilience of the players is second to nonce. John Carver has come in to help me and he says it is amazing, the spirit within the camp. It's all down to the players."

Plymouth have been told their FA Cup third round replay at Newcastle on Wednesday is expected to go ahead and Mariner hopes to cause an upset.

"FA Cups always bring upsets and we hope to be one. But at the end of the day it comes down to 11 players."

The Pilgrims will travel to Newcastle on Tuesday morning to begin their preparations for the tie.

Meanwhile striker Joe Mason, 18, is set to sign a one-year contract extension at Home Park.

Source: BBC Sport

Source: BBC Sport