Hardie joins on a long-term contract

PLYMOUTH Argyle have completed the signing of striker Ryan Hardie from Blackpool on a twoand-a-half-year contract.

The Pilgrims have paid an undisclosed fee to their League One rivals for Hardie, who had been on a season-long loan with them.

Now that has been turned into a permanent move, much to the delight of manager Ryan Lowe.

He told Argyle’s official club website: “We havce agreed an undisclosed fee with Blackpool to keep him here for the long term.

“He has settled down here, his family are here, he’s a great lad to be around with a great attitude.

“He works hard every day, he has got quality and we feel we can improve him.

“It’s great to have him here and I’m thankful to the board for sanctioning the deal. He’s one for the future of Plymouth Argyle.”

Hardie spent two months on loan to Argyle from Blackpool at the end of the Covid-19 shortened 2019/20 season.

He scored seven goals in five starts and eight substitute appearances as the Pilgrims clinched promotion.

Hardie then returned to Argyle on what was intended to be a season-long loan last summer and he has built up an impressive strike partnership with Luke Jephcott.

The former Rangers striker has scored four goals in 29 games, including 21 starts, this term.

However, his importance to the team can be measured in more than goals with Hardie contributing a number of assists and linking up well with Jephcott, who has netted 15 times.

Hardie grabbed Argyle’s second goal in the 2-0 away League One win against Swindon Town on Tuesday. They host Accrington Stanley today (3pm).

Hardie took to Twitter to express delight at the deal. He tweeted to his followers: “Happy to get the deal done. Looking forward to seeing what the next few years bring.”