Pilgrims' First Mate

Last updated : 04 November 2005 By Tom Kirk
Lindsay Parsons has today been named as the new Assistant Manager at Home Park. The 58-year old has worked with Plymouth Manager Tony Pulis at Portsmouth, Gillingham and Stoke. Now, the pair have been reunited once again, with an immediate aim to consolidate Argyle's Championship status.

Parsons will join David Kemp and Mark O'Connor in the Argyle dug-out, both of which have been hired by Pulis since his arrival in September. The Pilgrims Boss said: "I've known him since I was 16 and he's been my right-hand man".

"He's of the same ilk", the Welshman added, "He knows exactly what is needed...he'll be out watching players and that will be his main objective over the next few months".

This will be an added bonus to Pulis, who has admitted that he his frustrated at the difficultly in attracting new blood to the Westcountry. The former Stoke man has repeatedly signalled his intention to bolster the squad, but has yet to bring in a single fresh face.

This week, he has seen long-term target Sam Collins complete a loan move to Championship rivals Hull City, with a view to a permant switch from Port Vale. Pulis has also confirmed of his unsucessful attempts to bring Southampton striker Dexter Blackstock to Home Park on loan. The England Under-19 hitman spent some time in an Argyle shirt last season, scoring four goals in the process. Derby County snapped him up and he has already rewarded Phil Brown's side with three goals, already equalling the efforts of Plymouth's leading talismen - and that's just in Rams colours.

Pulis is hoping he will uncover "a few little diamonds", he told the club's official website. Best of luck and Welcome to Home Park, Lindsay!

In other news, former Argyle favourite Ian Stonebridge has returned to the Westcountry to try and save Torquay United's season.  The London-born attacker won two Championships with Plymouth, making over 200 appearances and scoring 45 goals.  His creative unpredictability and subtle quality make him just the sort of player the Gulls will need in order to beat the drop this season.  Best of luck to Stoney too.