Conor Hazard Expected to Be Fit for Start of Plymouth Argyle Season
Plymouth Argyle have been handed a boost ahead of the new League One season with news that goalkeeper Conor Hazard is expected to be fit for the start of the 2025/26 campaign, despite recently picking up a knee injury on international duty.
Hazard, 26, suffered a knee ligament issue while representing Northern Ireland in a UEFA Nations League fixture against Denmark in Copenhagen earlier this month. The injury, sustained during the first half of the match, forced him off and prompted concerns over his availability for the start of Argyle’s upcoming season.
Initial fears were that the former Celtic shot-stopper could face a lengthy spell on the sidelines. However, subsequent assessments by medical staff have revealed that the damage is less severe than first thought. After undergoing scans and a period of rest and rehabilitation, Hazard is expected to rejoin light training in the coming weeks and be available for pre-season preparations.
The news comes as a relief to manager Wayne Carlisle, who will be looking to hit the ground running as he leads the Greens into a pivotal season back in League One. With Hazard set to be part of the squad from the outset, Argyle’s defensive stability receives a timely boost.
Hazard made 31 Championship appearances for Plymouth in the 2024/25 season, often impressing with his shot-stopping and command of the penalty area. While the club ultimately suffered relegation, his performances earned praise from supporters and highlighted his value to the side.
Argyle’s goalkeeping department also includes Callum Burton and young prospect Zak Baker, but Hazard is widely expected to remain first choice between the posts heading into the new campaign. His experience at both club and international level will be crucial as Argyle aim for an immediate return to the second tier.
In a short statement, the club confirmed:
> “Conor Hazard sustained a minor knee ligament injury while playing for Northern Ireland earlier this month. Following medical assessment, we are pleased to report he is expected to recover in time for the start of the 2025/26 season.”
Hazard’s recovery will be monitored closely over the coming weeks, and while he may be eased back into match action, the signs are positive. Pre-season fixtures, due to begin in early July, could provide him with the opportunity to build match sharpness ahead of the season opener.
For now, the Northern Ireland international will focus on his rehab, but fans can take confidence that one of the club’s key players is on course to be fit and firing when Argyle kick off their League One campaign later this summer.
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