THE DAILY DIARY

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Greens on Screen's Daily Diary is a compilation of Argyle news, with help from these and other Argyle-related sites.

Plymouth Argyle FC

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On This Day:

Also included on the three most recent days, facts from Argyle's history.

Friday 24th July 2026

On This Day:

1974: Hughie Reed moved on to Crewe. A £12,000 capture from West Brom, the winger made a dream start for Argyle, scoring eight times in his first ten games, but flattered only to deceive. He soon lost his place and only appeared intermittently in his remaining two seasons at Home Park. No better word to describe our Hughie: 'diminutive'.

23rd

On This Day:

1913: Perhaps the most 'faithful' in Argyle's history, Rt. Hon. Michael Foot was born in Lipson Terrace, Plymouth.

Another busy transfer day:

1990: Robbie Turner from Bristol City.

1994: A record signing (and Argyle's worst?), Peter Swan from Port Vale.

2002: Two on one day, David Beresford from Hull and Nathan Lowndes from Livingston.

22nd

A happy 90th birthday to Alec Brenton!

Al became involved in the Trust when the EFL introduced the original Community Scheme, and dedicated over 25 years leading 'Matchday Magic' at Home Park Stadium � a matchday provision inspiring local young people and creating the next generation of the Green Army.

On This Day:

1974: Four transfers in one day: Phil Burrows joined from York & Mike Green from Bristol Rovers, and Neil Hague & Derek Rickard both moved to Bournemouth.

21st

Twenty years to the day since Argyle played a pre-season friendly against Real Madrid in the Austrian Alps, the Greens - and a sizeable number of the Green Army - descended on Plainmoor for the traditional warm-up fixture against Devon neighbours, Torquay United.

Argyle made it three wins out of three in a tight and closely fought encounter, as the Pilgrims were definitely challenged more than they had been in their previous two matches. It was what Tom Cleverley called a 'wake-up call'.

Pepple scored the only goal of the game midway through the first half, finishing well from inside the six-yard box after good work on the Argyle right, to put the ball beyond former young Pilgrim keeper, Zak Baker.

Torquay's no 19, Isaac Westendorf caused Argyle problems, while the Gulls felt they were unlucky not to have been awarded a penalty in the first half. But, despite chances in the second half, Torquay just could not find the equaliser and the Greens held on for the 1-0 win.

Argyle starting line-up with substitutes in brackets: 21 James Storer, 5 Julio Pleguezuelo (39 Hayman 60'), 11 Ronan Curtis (10 Amaechi 60'), 22 Alex Hartridge (2 Ross 46'), 23 Bradley Ibrahim (6 Boateng 60'), 24 Caleb Roberts (7 White 60'), 25 Freddie Issaka (38 Campbell 60'), 27 Bim Pepple(18 Oseni 46'), 40 Joe Mwaro (29 Sorinola 60'), 43 James Sharpe (20 Baidoo 46'), 45 Wes Harding (capt) (44 Rendle 60'),

Goals: Pepple 28

Yellows: Matty Sorinola 74

20th

Late in the evening, it was confirmed that Lorent Tolaj had completed a move to Championship side, Bristol City, for an undisclosed fee, thought to be in excess of �4m with add ons.

Argyle Director of Football Derek Adams said:

"We have sold him for significantly more money than we paid for him, and while you never want to lose players of his quality, this represents excellent business for the football club in a short space of time, and epitomises our player trading model.

"It is beneficial that the sale has happened with a lot of the transfer window still to go. It gives us the opportunity to recruit an appropriate replacement, and further strengthen the squad.

"We thank Tolly for his contributions at Argyle, and wish him well for the future, where we are sure he will continue to progress."

Our Mr Argyle, Kevin Nancekivell, has been awarded an honorary degree from Plymouth University. Very well deserved, Nance.

18th

Argyle continued their pre-season warm-up with a 3-0 victory at Bath City. Goals came from Owen Oseni, Michael Baidoo and Xavier Amaechi, though the Greens had many opportunities to score. Bath's substitutions included former Argyle striker, Ruben Reid.

The 11 starters gave way on 62 minutes to a completely new line-up.

Argyle (1): 1 Murphy Cooper, 2 Mathias Ross (capt), 6 Malachi Boateng, 10 Xavier Amaechi, 18 Owen Oseni, 20 Michael Baidoo, 22 Alex Hartridge, 27 Bim Pepple, 29 Matty Sorinola, 38 Seb Campbell, 44 Jared Rendle.

Argyle (2): 21 James Storer, 5 Julio Pleguezuelo, 11 Ronan Curtis, 23 Bradley Ibrahim, 24 Caleb Roberts, 25 Freddie Issaka, 26 Tegan Finn, 39 Sam Hayman, 40 Joe Mwaro, 43 James Sharpe, 45 Wes Harding.

Next up is a visit to Plainmoor to take on Torquay United on Tuesday night.

16th

There are strong rumours that a deal has been agreed with Bristol City for the transfer of Lorent Tolaj.

Argyle's EFL fixture dates have been confirmed. The Greens will play Crystal Palace U21s at home on Tuesday 22 September. They will be away to Newport County on Tuesday 6 October and at home again to Swindon Town on Tuesday 10 November. All kick offs are at 7pm.

Argyle Women's pre-season schedule has been announced. Three of the Greens' warm-up fixtures are home at Foulston Park; with the game against Marine Academy being played away. All matches will kick off at 2pm.

Sunday, 19 July - Bristol Rovers (H)

Sunday, 26 July - Cardiff City (H)

Sunday, 2 August - Marine Academy Plymouth (A)

Sunday, 9 August - Swansea City (H)

15th

Argyle Women's 2026-27 FAWNL South Premier Division fixtures have been announced.

The Greens kick off their season with an away trip to newly promoted Swindon Town on Sunday, 16 August.

The first home fixture, which will be played at Home Park, comes the following weekend when Matt Green's side plays host to AFC Wimbledon. The final game of the season will also be at home, against Lewes, on Sunday 2 May. The two matches against AFC Bournemouth who beat the Greens in last season's National League Cup will be played at Home Park on Sunday 18 October, with the reverse fixture on Sunday 18 April.

A full list can be found on the Argyle website.

14th

Argyle have signed goalkeeper Murphy Cooper from QPR on a two-year deal for an undisclosed fee.

The 24-year-old, originally from Reading, joined QPR at the age of 10, coming through their Academy system, and playing as a teenager with current Pilgrim Caleb Watts.

Cooper signed a professional deal at Loftus Road in 2021, and had loans with Welling United, Bath City and Stratford before making his Hoops debut towards the end of the 2021-22 season.

In 2023-24, Murphy joined Swindon on a long-term loan, in Sky Bet League Two and, in 2024-25 for League One Stevenage for whom he played 40 games.

Last season, Cooper spent the first half of the season at Barnsley, making his debut against Argyle on the opening day, and then headed to Sheffield Wednesday where he played eight times in the Championship.

"It is great to have Murphy on board," said Argyle Head Coach Tom Cleverley. "For a 24-year-old, he has excellent experience; he has played over 100 games, a lot of them at League One or Championship level, and is still young enough that he can keep on improving.

"He has a great character, is a terrific shot-stopper, and possesses that bravery, and desire to keep the ball out, that all top goalkeepers have. I am looking forward to seeing him in action with us."

Derek Adams, Director of Football, added: "Murphy is another excellent addition to our goalkeeping unit. He already knows League One really well from his time at Stevenage and Barnsley, and did well at Sheffield Wednesday in the Championship, too.

"We're really pleased with the goalkeeping group we have been able to assemble."

Former Argyle left-back, Nathaniel Ogbeta, has signed for Portuguese club Maritimo in Funchal on the island of Madeira.

The 25-year-old, who was released when his contract expired at the end of May, had been on loan at Barnsley last season.

13th

Argyle Under-18s' pre-season schedule has been announced.

Jamie Lowry's side will play five away games before the season proper starts on 8 August.

Their opponents will be:

Saturday, 18 July - Sidmouth (A)

Tuesday, 21 July - Leicester City (A)

Saturday, 25 July - Cardiff City (A)

Tuesday, 28 July - Elburton Villa (A)

Saturday, 1 August - Swansea City (A)

11th

Argyle played the first of their pre-season warm-up games and were comfortable victors over local side, Plymouth Parkway. First-half goals from Bim Pepple and Michael Baidoo came either side of a Will Sullivan strike for Parkway, after some defensive indecision.

Argyle made nine changes at half-time with defender, Joe Mwaro, the only player to remain on the pitch after the break.

Two goals from Owen Oseni near the start and finish of the half sealed the win.

Argyle (first half): 21 James Storer, 5 Julio Pleguezuelo, 6 Malachi Boateng, 9 Lorent Tolaj, 10 Xavier Amaechi, 23 Bradley Ibrahim, 27 Bim Pepple, 29 Matty Sorinola, 30 Michael Baidoo, 40 Joe Mwaro, 45 Wes Harding (capt).

Argyle (second half): 21 James Storer (Trialist), 4 Brendan Wiredu, 18 Owen Oseni, 24 Caleb Roberts, 25 Freddie Issaka, 26 Tegan Finn, 38 Seb Campbell, 39 Sam Hayman, 40 Joe Mwaro (44 Jared Rendle), 42 Jovan Wamani, 43 James Sharpe.

10th

Eight Argyle Academy apprentices have stepped up to the Under-18 squad.

They are: Corey Browne, a left-sided defender; centre-back, Deniz Doru; midfielder, Harry Locke; forward, James Sharpe; Joel Tolcher, a midfielder; defenders, Jovan Wanami and Dylan Williams, and striker, Emran Wischhoff.

Fuller details can be found on the Argyle official website.

9th

Argyle's away kit for the 2026-27 season has been revealed. The shirt is striped with light blue waves, said to be inspired by the shores of Plymouth Sound. It is accompanied by royal blue shorts and socks. Sponsors' logos Classic Builders, Vertu and Fineline appear on the shirt. Bastille drummer, Chris Wood 'Woody' unveiled the shirt on stage at the Eden Project.

Argyle's alleged target, Bristol Rovers' midfielder Kamil Conteh, has signed for newly promoted Bromley.

The great Paul Mariner died five years ago today, aged 68.

7th

Transfer rumours: Owen Dale is said to be talking to Leyton Orient after the winger rejected Argyle's offer.

Argyle are thought to be winning the race for QPR goalkeeper Murphy Cooper, with Sheffield Wednesday and Milton Keynes Dons also interested.

Plymouth Live are reporting that a number of Clubs are interested in securing the services of Argyle striker, Bim Pepple. Among those mentioned are Bolton Wanderers, Sheffield United, Danish side AGF Aarhus and 'a number of MLS' sides.

5th

Happy birthday to midfielder Malachi Boateng who is 24 today. Signed from Hearts in the January 2025 transfer window Malachi has made 63 appearances to date, including every league game last term, scoring five goals. Malachi won several accolades at the end of the year, including Men's Players' Player of the Season.

4th

The Argyle first-team squad are heading to their Spain for their summer training camp near the city of Murcia. The six-day camp will run from today until Thursday 9 July. Returnee, Michael Baidoo, has not been able to travel, due to visa issues.

Tom Cleverley has expressed himself 'very pleased' with the quality of Argyle's summer signings so far. He has also said that he is totally committed to the Pilgrims and fully focused on getting them promoted back into the Championship this season. Rumours linking him with Championship side, Blackburn Rovers, were wide of the mark:

"There weres no approaches, I'm completely committed and focused to getting Argyle where we want to be," Cleverley said. "There was nothing concrete coming my way, and not something I really thought about.

"Unless asked to, in 20 years of football, I've never left a football club, and, I don't intend on changing that anytime soon."

2nd

Argyle's first-round Carabao Cup tie at home to Exeter City has now been scheduled for Monday 10 August with a kick-off time of 8pm. The match will be shown on Sky Sports.

1st

Tom Cleverley has told a news conference that there is no pressure to sell Argyle's two star strikers, Lorent Tolaj and Bim Pepple.

"From their training, from the conversations I have had, they look very committed which has been really pleasing that I can plan a season, a system, a style of play around them being here," he said.

"The (transfer) market is very slow. Whether we are going to get that bid that might turn our heads we are yet to see.

"Now, we have got a figure for both of our players. We have got a real strong value of where they are at how they performed last season, but also their ceiling.

"The most important thing for me is the work the last three or four days, they both look committed."

The rumoured deal for Watford 'keeper, Nathan Baxter is looking less likely as location is said to be an issue, with Leyton Orient now interested in the 27-year-old.

30th June

Argyle are said to be in talks with Watford over the transfer of 27-year-old goalkeeper, Nathan Baxter.

29th

As reported last week (diary 24 June), Argyle have now confirmed the signing of 24-year-old midfielder, Harvey White, from Stevenage on a free transfer. Harvey played 50 times for Stevenage last season, scoring six goals. He was offered a new deal in Hertfordshire, but has opted to come to Devon on a three-year contract.

Kent-born White came through the ranks at Tottenham Hotspur, playing nine times for the in the EFL Trophy, as well as one appearance each in the Premier League, FA Cup and Europa League.

He had a loan spell with Portsmouth, in League One, in the second half of the 2020-21 season, playing 22 games. He had a similar loan with Derby County, two seasons later, playing 15 times, before moving to Stevenage in 2023 where he had 118 appearances in all.

"I'm really pleased that we have secured Harvey's signing," said Head Coach Tom Cleverley. "I saw him play several times last season, including against us, and he impressed me with how well he used the ball, how he reads the game, and how much he influences play.

"He is left-footed, has very good set-piece delivery, and I am looking forward to working with him."

Argyle Director of Football Derek Adams added: "The addition of Harvey complements our other midfielders nicely.

"At 24, he has some experience under his belt, and still has scope to develop even further."

27th

PASALB (the London Supporters' Branch) held its 50th anniversary celebrations at the Copperjax Community Stadium, home of Bromley FC.

26th

The first-team squad report back for pre-season fitting testing today. Among them was attacking midfielder, Michael Baidoo, for whom Argyle paid in excess of �1m from Elfsborg in 2024, but who was not released to play until early 2025 when he had five starts and eight substitute appearances for the Greens until Miron Muslic. He then went on loan to Qatari Stars League side Umm Salal, where he spent the whole of the 2025-26 campaign. He is now back at Home Park where he is under contract until 2028.

Argyle have signed goalkeeper James Storer from Wolves on a two-year contract from 1 July, with the option of a third.

The 21-year-old, a product of the Wolves academy, has had a series of loans, including in the National League North with Chester and, last season, at Scottish Championship side Greenock Morton, where he won the club's Young Player of the Year award. He is the former Republic of Ireland Under-19 'keeper.

Tom Cleverley said: "James is a good shot-stopper, and has a good eye for distribution. He had a really good season with Morton, and we think he think he has great development in front of him.

"I spoke to several people I know who James has worked with, and they spoke very highly of his attitude and ability. It's good to have him on board."

Derek Adams, Director of Football, added: "James is very experienced for someone of his age, and he is already a very good goalkeeper.

"He is the first addition this summer to what we believe will be a very strong goalkeeping unit, and is someone who we believe we can develop over the period of time he is with us. I'm very pleased he agreed to join us."

Ginsters are to be Argyle's training wear partner for 2026-27.

Ginsters, who have been associated with the Pilgrims for over 20 years now, first became sponsors in 2002, some 24 years ago. They are also Argyle's principal partner in Project35.

25th

The fixtures for EFL season 2026-27 have been released. You can find all the details of Argyle's on the official website. The Greens' campaign will begin at home to losing play-off finalists, Stockport County, on Saturday 15 August.

Argyle's final opponents in the EFL Trophy will be Crystal Palace Under 21s.

And finally, on a day of fixture releases, Argyle will host Devon rivals, Exeter City, at home in the first round of the Carabao Cup during the weekend of 7-9 August - which will kick off the season.

Happy birthday to Director of Football and former manager, Derek Adams.

24th

Argyle have been linked with Stevenage midfielder, Harvey White. Former Tottenham prospect, 24-year-old White, who is out of contract with the Hertfordshire Club, is said to be having a medical at Home Park in the next days.

CT1 will remain an Argyle partner sponsor: their logo will appear on the training kit for the forthcoming season.

Five former players with a combined 1,500 appearances for Argyle-Tommy Tynan, Chris Harrison, Mick Heathcote, Mickey Evans, Romain Larrieu, Martin Barlow, Steve McCall and Kevin Hodges-shared their memories of being at the club at a hilarious and nostalgic event staged by the Green Taverners, along with comedian and Argyle fan, Josh Widdicombe who hosted the event.

Josh Widdicombe is to be an ambassador for the Argyle Archive.

23rd

Argyle will face Swindon Town, Newport County and one Premier League under-21 side in the group stage of the 2026/27 EFL Trophy.

The final Group E opponent will be found out on Thursday, 25 June, when the remaining Premier League under-21 sides are drawn live on Sky Sports, from 2.30pm. Argyle will be drawn with one of: Arsenal, Brentford, Brighton & Hove Albion, Chelsea, Crystal Palace, Fulham, Ipswich Town or Tottenham Hotspur.

The contract offer made to midfielder Joe Ralls has now expired. An agreement could still be reached but this would have to be on new terms.

Midfielder Callum Wright has moved to Scottish Premiership side, Hibernian, after the expiration of his contract with Argyle. Callum was on loan last season at Wigan Athletic.

John Lucas has returned to Home Park at on-pitch performance coach. John was previously with the Greens during Ryan Lowe's tenure 2019-20.

He left in 2021, for Salford City, and later went on to rejoin Lowe at Preston North End as head of physical performance. He then spent some time in Australia with Perth Glory, and now returns to England for a second stint with the Greens.

"It was a no-brainer for me," John told Argyle TV. "I think people that know me know what I thought of the place. It's a special club, special city. Very unique, especially when you've been to a few other football clubs. I'm excited to be back.

"[Head Coach Tom Cleverley] is part of the reason why I've come. I sat with him for a couple of hours and was really, really impressed with his methodology, with how he came across, with how he wants to work, how he sees the staff within that system of his philosophy, his wider football philosophy, and how our relationship would be."

19th

Forever Green held their successful annual golf day at Staddon Heights. The highlight was a hole in one by former player, John Peddelty, who scored a hole in one and was given a hastily arranged trophy for his achievement.

It has been rumoured that talks between Argyle and former Oxford loanee, Owen Dale, have broken down over wage levels.

16th

Matt Green has been appointed as the new Head Coach of the Argyle Women's team.

Matt has been a coach with Argyle for many years, was Assistant Head Coach last season, and has been in charge of overseeing the Argyle Women's Player Pathway.

He will be supported by Argyle Director of Football Derek Adams, Assistant Head Coach Jon Dawe and further support staff.

"I am delighted to be given the role of Head Coach," said Matt. "I have been involved with the Argyle Women's team for many years, and it is an honour to be given the chance to take charge of the team.

"With Derek overviewing the project, I am very confident we will be able to steer Argyle Women into next season and beyond."

Argyle have issued a statement about their proposal for the future of the Women's team, including a delayed apology for the 'Hi All...' email.

Firstly, we accept that the way we handled breaking the news to the players was poor, and for that we apologise.

We want to assure supporters that the women's team still has a place at Argyle, will compete in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division this season, and will be supported by a long-term strategy.

Our revised approach is designed around two key aspects. One is to ensure that we grow our team and structure sustainably, in line with the current trajectory of the women's game. The second is to give more opportunities to local players and staff, with a view to longer-term development.

We have invested in Foulston Park, a superb facility for the women's team and the Academy, and it will play a vital role in how we develop our future. This will, in time, be our permanent training base, and a hub for the organisational aspects of the team. We will continue to play home fixtures at Home Park, where possible.

We have many excellent young players in our player pathway, and are excited to give them the opportunities to develop, and shine. We intend to recruit smartly to augment what we have, and to give ourselves a chance to be competitive.

15th

The transfer window opens today and closes on 1 September at 2300.

And Argyle have made their first window signing with Wes Harding agreeing a two-year deal to return to Home Park. The defender was on loan from Millwall for three months at the end of last season. Wes has also been made vice-captain.

"We are thrilled to bring Wes to the football club on a permanent basis," said Argyle Head Coach Tom Cleverley. "He brings an abundance of experience, quality and leadership that we all saw during the second half of the season, helping the team improve significantly.

"We value what Wes will bring both on and off the pitch, which is one of the reasons we have named him as the club's vice-captain."

13th

Tom Cleverley was appointed Argyle Men's Head Coach one year ago today.

Congratulations to veteran Argyle fan Edmund (Edbanger) Shillabeer who has been awarded a British Empire Medal in the King's Birthday Honours for his many exploits for charity.

12th

An extension to the Oncology Centre at Derriford Hospital in memory of Gordon Sparks was opened by Kevin Nancekivell and by Gordon's widow, Heather.

11th

Congratulations and good luck to three former Argyle players who are involved in the World Cup - Ben Waine for New Zealand; Jerome Opuku for Ghana, and Nikola Katic for Bosnia-Herzegovina.

6th

England Seniors once again won the Seniors World Cup - the 18th version - this time by beating France 4-0 in the final in Thailand. The Greens were represented by four former players - Barry Hayles, who opened the scoring, Karl Duguid who netted the fourth, David Norris and Luke McCormick, who kept yet another clean sheet.

4th

Argyle are said to be interested in Bristol Rovers and Sierra Leonean international Kamil Conteh. Apparently, an initial bid has been rejected but the Greens are expected to up their offer.

Congratulations to Owen Dale and his partner, Jessica, on the birth of their daughter, Etta Lucia, at Derriford Hospital.

3rd

Goalkeeper, Conor Hazard, has signed for League One rivals, Wycombe Wanderers and will join them after his contract with Argyle expires on 30 June.

Argyle have made their first signing of the 2026-27 season with defender, Alex Hartridge, joining as a free agent from Burton Albion on a two-year contract. Alex has previously played for three 'local' sides - Truro City, Torquay United and Exeter City.

Argyle are apparently interested in signing QPR goalkeeper, Murphy Cooper.

England Veterans, including David Norris, scored a decisive 3-0 victory against the USA in the Seniors World Cup, topping their group and moving onto the semi-finals on Friday.

2nd

PASALB (the Argyle Supporters London Branch) issued a critical statement about the treatment of the Women's team and its response to fans' disquiet, calling for the Club to issue a full apology.

Former Argyle stars, Karl Duguid and Luke McCormick were in action as England Seniors beat Taiwan 4-1 in the Seniors World Cup to go top of their group.

1st

News about the email sent to the Women's team reached the national press and broadcasters, including the BBC:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/c0r2lgv0ny2o

In response to this negative publicity and to the growing outcry among Argyle fans, the Club eventually issued a statement which acknowledged errors in communication but stopped short of an apology: https://www.pafc.co.uk/news/club-statement-argyle-women

However, this did little to mollify the unease, as it appeared to be shifting responsibility onto the departed Head Coach, Marie Hourihan. The reasons behind the decision and the position of CEO, Paul Berne, were questioned.

The Argyle Fans' Trust (AFT) put out a statement which can be read by following this link on their Facebook page:https://www.facebook.com/TheArgyleTrust

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