Argyle’s Deadline Day explained: Why the Pilgrims strengthened through the middle

Plymouth Argyle used deadline day to add experience and depth in key central areas, completing two loan signings aimed at strengthening the spine of the team for the rest of the season.

The Pilgrims brought in midfielder Herbie Kane from Huddersfield Town and defender Wes Harding from Millwall, with both players joining on loan until the end of the campaign.

READ NEXT: Plymouth police issue update following late-night Co-op ‘ram-raid’ near Plympton

Midfield cover and experience

Argyle’s first deadline-day move saw Kane arrive to bolster midfield options at Home Park. 

The 27-year-old has close to 200 appearances at Championship and League One level and offers experience in a department where numbers have recently been stretched.

Head coach Tom Cleverley said Kane brings both quality and know-how, describing him as “an extremely talented footballer who can offer depth and quality across a variety of positions”.

ABOVE: Kane in action for former side Barnsley against Argyle in March 2023 (Image: PPAUK)

Cleverley added that Kane’s season had been disrupted by injury but confirmed he is now fully fit and ready to contribute.

Kane’s arrival helps address a shortage in central midfield, with injuries to Joe Ralls and Bradley Ibrahim, while others such as Brendan Wiredu have been required to cover multiple positions. 

Defensive depth through the spine

Later in the day, Argyle completed a second loan deal, signing Wes Harding from Millwall. 

Comfortable at centre-back or right-back, the 29-year-old adds versatility and senior experience to the back line.

Harding has played regularly in both the Championship and League One and arrives at a time when Argyle’s defensive options have been under pressure. 

Julio Pleguezuelo is currently injured, while others such as Charlton loanee Alex Mitchell have been required to play extended runs of matches.

ABOVE: Harding lined up for Millwall against Argyle in October 2023 (Image: PPAUK)

Director of Football Derek Adams said that Harding was a long-term target and said the move coming together late in the window was typical of January business. 

He described the defender as “an excellent player who will add real competition for places”.

It is also worth noting that Harding’s current Millwall contract expires in the summer, on the 31st May 2026.

Why the focus was central

With captain and experienced full-back Joe Edwards having started every game since October, injuries limiting midfield choices, and several players asked to cover multiple roles, Argyle’s deadline-day business focused on reinforcing the middle of the pitch.

By bringing in Kane and Harding on loan, Argyle have added proven experience without a transfer fee, while easing the physical load on a squad heading into the crucial final months of the season.