Plymouth Argyle’s journey this season, from bottom-of-the-table dwellers to genuine play-off contenders, represents a sensational turnaround; yet, much remains to be played for in the closing weeks of the campaign.
A fundamental factor underpinning this resurgence has been the consistent form and regular contributions of their striking options throughout the season. Lorent Tolaj’s prolific form upon his arrival in Devon proved to be Argyle’s saving grace during what was otherwise a torrid autumn period.
When the Swiss goal scorer suffered back-to-back leg injuries in early 2026, grave concern rippled through the Green Army. However, the feared impact was softened by the unexpected emergence of Bim Pepple, whose impressive performances ensured Tolaj’s absence wasn’t as detrimental as first thought.
Despite boasting two of the best target men in League One this term, managing their minutes amidst the hectic EFL schedule has been a considerable challenge for head coach Tom Cleverley. Now, as the season heads into its business end, and with both set to be available as early as Good Friday, how Cleverley juggles his two in-form strikers in these vital remaining games could really make or break Argyle’s season.
Exhausting Period For Bim Pepple
The thought of leaving Bim Pepple out of the starting eleven, especially after his remarkable goal return in 2026, on the surface feels almost unthinkable; however, a short rest may be precisely what the 23-year-old needs after a relentless few months of high-intensity football.
A run of 12 goal involvements this calendar year saw Pepple receive his fully deserved maiden international call-up by Canada, a development that led to the rescheduling of Argyle’s crucial away match with Bradford City. Given Pepple’s likely involvement in a friendly match against Tunisia in the early hours of Wednesday morning, expecting him to play a full role in the Good Friday game against Bolton Wanderers might be an unrealistic expectation.
It has been as emotionally draining a period for Pepple as it has been physically exhausting, and Tom Cleverley must prioritize his long-term condition in his short-term decision-making. His incessant willingness to run in behind, not to mention his unerring finishing that is currently at its peak, makes it incredibly tempting to throw him straight back into the starting lineup.
The short turnaround from the Canada friendly, coupled with the stresses of traveling the globe, makes it entirely likely that Pepple will play a curtailed role in the Good Friday fixture, leaving his club boss with a decision to make over who to start up front against the Trotters. The trouble is, there’s a definite risk involved in leaving him out of the game.
Need Versus Caution In Tolaj Return
With the way the fixtures have fallen, every match lately has felt like a six-pointer for Plymouth Argyle in the race for the play-offs. Argyle has risen to the occasion in this challenging run, and the Easter weekend presents another massive opportunity. They’ll be desperate to put out their most united eleven, giving them the best possible shot at taking down Wanderers and then Barnsley.
Adding to the pressure, a home Devon derby against Exeter City, with revenge on their minds, looms large. Cleverley’s squad rotation takes on further significance with the stakes so high.
Tolaj’s readiness for the run-in is the result of careful work between him and the club’s medical staff. But with the memory of a muscle injury halting his previous recovery, the club must tread carefully to protect their million-pound star from further setbacks.
The 24-year-old’s tenacious pressing of the opposition presents a valuable advantage against tiring defenders, making a compelling case for his introduction in the latter stages of the Easter matches.
Unleash The Substitutes
The 36-year-old has barely put a foot wrong in the technical area lately, with his recent success born from his bold in-game decision-making. The Pilgrims’ management of matches having taken the lead has been impressive, with the squad all playing a part in their collection of points.
Now with the spotlight firmly on his deployment of his strikers, the former Watford manager must remain decisive in identifying the point at which to make changes.
Despite the recent effectiveness of his preferred 4-4-2 formation, Cleverley has demonstrated tactical adaptability in the wins against Wigan Athletic and Stevenage, moving away from this fruitful setup to isolate Pepple and fortify the midfield.
Owen Oseni’s consistent contributions throughout the season, highlighted by his display in the 3-1 triumph over Huddersfield Town a fortnight ago, underscore his value as a striker, making it imperative that the Irishman be granted a starting berth this weekend to ease the strain on Pepple and Tolaj.
This approach enables the strategic reintegration of the pair into the side, offering them smaller roles initially, with the potential for impactful introductions later in the game, where their energy can either shift the momentum or secure the points.
With goals being contributed from all over the pitch, the coaching staff can afford to safeguard their talismanic players without compromising the team’s ability to score goals.