Tottenham Prospect Impresses on Loan as Manager Confirms January Recall Option
Plymouth Argyle manager Tom Cleverley has backed Tottenham youngster Oliver Irow to make the step up to Championship football next season after his impressive start to life on loan.
The versatile forward, who can operate either out wide or through the middle, has scored four goals in six appearances for Plymouth in all competitions. Three of those goals have come in his last two League One matches, helping Argyle climb to third in the table.
Cleverley has been impressed by Irow’s confidence and quick adaptation since arriving at Plymouth. Speaking to BBC Radio Devon, the manager praised the youngster’s belief and his ability to settle into the squad and connect with the supporters.
For now, Cleverley believes Irow should remain focused on helping Plymouth enjoy a successful League One campaign. However, if his development continues at the current pace, a move to the Championship next season could be a realistic possibility.
One of Irow’s highlights so far came with a spectacular long-range effort against Barnsley, which has been regarded as one of the division’s standout goals this season. His willingness to shoot from distance has also contributed to his impressive scoring record.
The four goals he has already registered this season equal his entire tally from last season, when he spent time on loan at fellow League One club Mansfield Town.
Cleverley has also revealed that Tottenham have the option to recall Irow in January. If that happens, the more likely outcome could be another loan move, potentially to a club competing at a higher level.
Drawing from his own playing experience, Cleverley warned that young players can sometimes be recalled too early before they are ready for the next step. He referenced Amario Cozier-Duberry’s time at Bolton, where patience eventually helped lead to a successful move to Middlesbrough.
While refusing to look too far ahead, Cleverley indicated that both Plymouth and Tottenham are satisfied with Irow’s progress so far.
