Derek Adams: Former Plymouth manager returns as director of football

Plymouth currently sits last in League One and has lost its past five matches in all competitions.

They have won just four of their 15 league games so far under former Watford boss Cleverley, who was appointed in the summer.

The former Manchester United midfielder said after the 3-1 defeat to Huddersfield on Saturday that he would “fight” to turn around the team’s fortunes.

The club’s former head of recruitment Tom Randle – who oversaw the summer transfer window – left the club by mutual consent last month.

Since leaving Plymouth five years ago, Adams has spent three spells as Morecambe manager during which he guided them to promotion to the Championship.

The Scot also spent eight months as Bradford City manager in the 2021-2022 season and resigned after 12 games as Ross County manager in February 2024 after a third spell in charge of the Scottish Premiership club.

Plymouth chairman Simon Hallett said: “Derek is someone who knows Argyle well after having worked here as a manager.”

He added: “He has extensive knowledge across all areas of the football pyramid in both England and Scotland and will provide valuable support to both David and Tom as we look to get through this difficult period.”

“He is someone with experience in difficult circumstances and will work closely with all areas of the men’s football department to ensure improved results and performance.”