Plymouth Argyle defender Jack MacKenzie has suffered a fresh injury setback just as he was nearing a first-team return. Head coach Tom Cleverley confirmed the 26-year-old left-back will be sidelined for a further two to three weeks with a groin issue, as reported by the BBC this week.
MacKenzie had only recently returned to full training after undergoing knee surgery earlier in the summer. He joined Argyle from Aberdeen in May 2025 and has made 12 appearances for the club, six of which were starts. The latest problem is a blow to a squad sitting 16th in League One with four points from their opening four games. Their recent form reads LWDL, with four goals scored and six conceded.
What is the nature of MacKenzie's injury?
Tom Cleverley detailed that MacKenzie has a "little niggle" in his adductor muscle. This comes after the player had battled tendonitis in his knee and shin splints before his summer operation. Cleverley stressed the setback is minor but significant for a player who has endured a long period of fitness struggles. "He has suffered a setback. It's a small one, it's two to three weeks," Cleverley said. "What I don't want from this situation is a load of people getting stick for it and the player in particular."
The manager also highlighted the psychological toll such repeated injuries can take. "There will be an element of guilt from the player and all the stuff which goes through your mind when you've had bad injuries for a long period," Cleverley explained. He has instructed the squad to rally around MacKenzie, describing him as an incredibly hard worker who was flying in training and had ticked every box for a comeback.
How does this affect Plymouth's squad depth?
The loss of MacKenzie compounds an existing injury concern in midfield. Malachi Boateng suffered a knee ligament injury in the 1-1 draw away to Wycombe Wanderers on August 22. Cleverley provided a more positive update on Boateng, stating the midfielder had a good visit to a specialist and could return in five to six weeks if his recovery stays on track.
These absences come at a time when Argyle are looking to build momentum. They currently sit six points behind early League One leaders Huddersfield Town. The immediate focus shifts to their next fixture, an away trip to face Doncaster Rovers on September 5. Doncaster are 20th in the table, making it a key opportunity for points. Fans can track the team's upcoming schedule on our fixtures page.
What has the manager said about MacKenzie's future?
Cleverley has been emphatic in his support for the defender, praising his character and potential contribution. He called MacKenzie a good player, a good person, and a good worker. The manager expressed confidence that the team will achieve more than last season with MacKenzie in the side once he is fully fit.
"He needs rallying around due to the setback and the club is here to support him," Cleverley stated. He remains hopeful that the player's dedication will ultimately be rewarded with a successful and sustained return to action. The full extent of the club's injury situation can be monitored on our dedicated injuries page.
Plymouth Argyle's next challenge is that away match against Doncaster Rovers this Friday.
