Peter Reid disappointed over losing Chelsea’s Conor Clifford
Plymouth Argyle manager Peter Reid has said he is not happy about losing Conor Clifford ahead of the upcoming Christmas period. The young Chelsea player was on loan at Plymouth, and was planning to extend his stay at the club. However, the Football League
put an end to the deal, and the 19-year-old will be unable to stay for a third month. Under the emergency loan arrangements, Plymouth and http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Chelsea-c38786 had agreed that the youngster could remain at the club for the third month, which would be his last before he
moved back to Stamford Bridge.
The Football League stated that they viewed the agreement for a third month as a new loan agreement, which is why they couldn’t let it go through. Thus his registration for Argyle was declined, which was a big disappointment for Reid. The Plymouth manager
admitted that he was gutted after hearing the news that the player would soon be returning to London. The youngster has so far made over eight appearances for the Pilgrims, and has been very impressive. The Ireland under-21 International has had a major influence
on the team at Home Park, which is why he will be missed.
Reid told reporters, “Obviously, we're all bitterly disappointed he won't be with us. The boy was sick, really gutted when he was told he wouldn't be staying. He's done great for us and been a leader and shook people up, but what will be, will be. But it
is a blow – I've got to say that. He brought enthusiasm and energy to our play in the middle of the park, and has been a breath of fresh air.”
Argyle skipper Carl Fletcher also voiced his disappointment over the fact that Clifford would be leaving the squad. He said, “It's a blow for us because he (Clifford) has been doing well for us of late. Of course, he was learning his trade and gaining experience
at the same time, playing for us. We've just got to get on with it and not dwell on it too much.”
Fletcher is expected to return to the team, after being sidelined with an injury. Reid will be pleased to have his captain back, after having one of his best players leave the club. Reid revealed the Pilgrims captain would be available for the tough Christmas
fixtures. Argyle are set to play Bournemouth on Boxing Day, and the manager is looking forward to the fixture. Reid will have a lot to worry about though, since three players will most probably be leaving the club since their contracts expire at the end of
this month, and there has been no mention of bringing in new signings.
Reid confirmed that http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Jordan-c2929 Trott, the young Plymouth-born defender, would be released by the club next month. Trott was handed a short contract in the summer, and will be out of contract this summer. However Reid said he would like to keep 18-year-old goalkeeper
http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Lee-c21860 Molynex at the club. Molynex was rewarded with a five month contract after he impressed in the trials. However, because of financial issues, Reid was not certain if he could retain the two players, he said, “Well,
it's a problem isn't it, because we're under an embargo? I will be having a chat with the lads personally to see what way we can get around it.”
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