Plymouth Argyle manager Derek Adams has urged up and coming prospect Ben Purrington to push on and challenge for a regular place in the first-team this season.
The 20-year-old academy product is set to deputise for first choice left-back Gary Sawyer, who is likely to be ruled out of Argyle’s game against Cheltenham Town on Saturday because of a groin injury.
Purrington, who has made 43 senior appearances for the Pilgrims, made his debut back in December 2013 at the age of 17 in a 3-2 win at Oxford United, but has yet to earn an extended run as a starter in the side.
Having played 90 minutes in their 4-1 EFL Trophy victory over Newport County on Tuesday, Adams wants the 2013/14 League Two Apprentice of the Year nominee to stake a claim for a regular starting berth.
“It’s a big year for him,” Adams said. “He has got to hit the ground running now and really push Gary Sawyer for that left-back slot.
“I have spoken to him a number of times about that and being the best player in training so he can become a first-team regular.”
