Unbelievable Jeph!
Super Luke strikes another double to spark talk of an international call from Wales
FORMER Premier League striker Dean Ashton has praised the one touch finishing ability of Plymouth Argyle goal ace Luke Jephcott.
Ashton, who was also capped once by England, described the 21-yearold marksman as ‘absolutely vital’.
He also suggested that Aberystwyth-born Jephcott could be part of the Wales squad for the delayed Euro 2020 finals this summer.
His comments came after Jephcott netted twice in the 2-2 draw with Portsmouth at Fratton Park to take his goal tally to the season to 18.
It was the fifth time in his short Argyle career that the striker has scored twice in a game, but he is still waiting for his first hat-trick.
Ashton talked about Jephcott in his role as a studio guest on the EFL on Quest highlights show on Saturday night.
He said: “That’s 18 goals in all competitions, 14 of them one touch finishes, which tells you a lot about what type of player he is in terms of the composure you need when in a crowded penalty area you have got to make your move.
“When the ball comes to you quickly, the fact he is able to finish one touch with such composure maybe belies his years to be honest, and something that other clubs I’m sure will be looking at.
“But for Plymouth he’s absolutely vital and he will be looking at the Welsh squad for the Euros I’m sure with that sort of form.”
Jephcott played three times for Wales under-21s earlier this season and must be under consideration for a senior call-up by manager Ryan Giggs.
The Pilgrims’ striker is the leading scorer in League One with 16 goals, two clear of Peterborough United’s Jonson Clarke-Harris.
Wales are next in action when they away to Belgium on March 24 in their first 2022 World Cup qualifier.
That will be followed a friendly international against Mexico at the Cardiff City Stadium three days later.
Wales will then be at home to the Czech Republic in another World Cup qualifier on March 30.
They will have one warm-up match before the Euros, against Albania at the Cardiff City Stadium on June 5, before the tournament begins.
They have been drawn in the same group as Switzerland, Turkey and Italy.
Meanwhile, former Premier League manager Nigel Pearson was also a guest on the EFL on Quest highlights show on Saturday.
He gave his thoughts on Ryan
Lowe after the Pilgrims’ boss signed a new long-term contract with the club on Friday.
Pearson said: “He has been linked with a number of jobs. I think his expansive style of play is exciting.
“He plays you could argue either 3-4-3 or 3-5-2, but it’s a really interesting set up.
“They play a very attacking style, but I think it shows a lot of courage to be able to do that.
“I think sorting out a contract actually will probably help settle things down a little bit.
“I don’t think it helps to have your manager constantly being linked with other jobs. I think it will hopefully settle the situation down.
“I’m sure he knows he’s at a good club and if he has success there - as he has already done - I think that will be great for his own personal development. I think he has got a bright future.”