DEFENCE is likely to be Dario Gradi's major headache in selection for this Saturday's home clash with Plymouth.

So what's new after conceding 42 goals this season?

After sustaining a hamstring injury in the 2-2 draw with Ipswich, Chris McCready's latest breakdown is set to rule him out for 10 days leaving another question mark over who partners Steve Foster.

The injury list has eased though with Jon Otsemobor, Anthony Tonkin and Mark Rivers likely to be in contention for Argyle's visit.

Billy Jones is less likely although back in training after his thigh strain

If Tonkin does recover from his foot injury, it would allow a straight decision between Adie Moses and Richard Walker for the other centre halve spot.

"Chris isn't fit and I've been told 10 days so it depends how it goes," explained Gradi.

"It's not too serious, it never is but something keeps happening.

"We're definitely making progress with Chris though.

"Jon and Rivo are much better, Tonks is a little less likely but still has a chance of playing on Saturday.

"Foz is our king of defenders at the moment and the others are trying to be his partner."

Despite a decent start to their Championship campaign, Plymouth arrive in indifferent form and with just two wins in their last eight.

"They're a different club to us," said Gradi.

"Last time we played them, they beat us here and we beat them there and played really well.

"It's a club I've nearly joined on several occasions.

"I wanted to play league football there to further my coaching really but the FA offered me a regional coaching job.

"Assistant coach was offered to me when I was at Derby.

"Then there was a takeover and I was sounded out while I was at Crewe but I wasn't interested.

"They've got big potential, they should be the kings of the West Country and probably are.

"They do have a youth policy but it's not as important as it is here."