However, five players from Plymouth Argyle’s under-18 squad, who reached the FA Youth Cup quarter-finals this season, will be leaving the club.
Striker Joe Hatch has been offered his first professional contract following the conclusion of the under-18 campaign, while defender Harry Shield will receive an extra year on his scholarship due to significant time lost through injury. Meanwhile, Cole Fisher, Dan Holman, Jensen Ireland, Harley Sneap, and Joel Sullivan will not be retained with pro deals.
Hatch, 18, began the season in strong form, earning a first-team debut as a late substitute in the 1-0 Championship loss to Burnley on October 1. Unfortunately, his season was cut short the next month after undergoing knee ligament surgery.
Fisher, Holman, Ireland, and Sullivan all featured in the FA Youth Cup quarter-final defeat away to Aston Villa, following a notable 1-0 upset victory over Everton in the previous round.
Argyle academy manager Phil Stokes said: “We’re thrilled to offer Joe his first pro contract. He’s shown real talent and determination, and despite his injury, we believe he has a promising future.
“We’re also happy to extend Harry’s scholarship and will continue supporting his development. We want to thank all the departing players for their contributions—they’ve been a credit to themselves and the club. They’ll always be part of the Argyle family, and we’ll support them in the next steps of their football journeys.”
Former head coach Wayne Rooney gave Hatch his senior debut, explaining: “With Obafemi unavailable and Hardie our only fit striker, it felt like the right time to give Joe a chance. He’s been in great form for the U18s and earned his opportunity. I’m proud of him—he deserved it.”
Rooney added: “He hadn’t even trained with the first team yet, but sometimes all a player needs is a chance. I remember Marcus Rashford getting his opportunity under similar circumstances—and the rest is history.”
