Paraphrase: Alfie Devine is aiming to make a significant contribution to Plymouth Argyle’s Championship clash against Blackburn Rovers on Saturday. After suffering two consecutive defeats against Ipswich Town and Sheffield Wednesday, Plymouth is feeling the pressure of potential relegation, despite currently sitting in 16th place in the Championship table. However, their recent loss to Sheffield Wednesday has brought the 23rd-placed team within two points of them, emphasizing the urgency for Ian Foster’s side to return to winning form.
Devine, who initially saw regular playing time after joining Plymouth on loan from Tottenham in January, has recently found himself on the substitutes’ bench for the past three matches. Although he remained unused during the midweek fixture against Sheffield Wednesday, there is speculation that he might return to the starting lineup for the upcoming match against Blackburn Rovers as Plymouth aims to secure three crucial points after failing to score in their last two outings.
Devine, who enjoyed a successful loan spell with Port Vale in League One earlier in the season, was recalled by Tottenham in January and subsequently loaned to Plymouth to gain experience at the Championship level. Despite facing challenges in the past few games, there is still ample time for the 19-year-old England Under-20 international to make a significant impact on Plymouth’s season, with ten Championship games remaining.
Given Devine’s mixed performance so far, football.london interviewed Chris Errington, Plymouth Argyle reporter for Plymouth Live, to discuss the player’s adaptation to Championship football and his prospects for the remainder of the season. According to Errington, Devine has faced difficulties adjusting to a more advanced position in Plymouth’s lineup, especially following the departure of Finn Azaz, who played in a similar role and was instrumental in the team’s attack.
Errington also highlighted the competitive nature of Championship football, noting that it is common for young players like Devine to face challenges in retaining their place in the starting lineup. However, he emphasized the importance of seizing opportunities, whether as a starter or a substitute, to make a positive impact on the team and earn more playing time in the future.
