Plymouth Argyle sweating on fitness of star striker ahead of Sunderland trip

Freddie Ladapo could miss Plymouth's trip to Sunderland

The Pilgirms will make the journey to Wearside this weekend looking to build on a run of form which has lifted them well clear of relegation danger.

But they may have to make do without top scorer Freddie Ladapo, who is a doubt for the League One clash.

Ladapo, who has netted 15 times for Plymouth this season, was tentatively linked with a move to Sunderland during the latter stages of the winter transfer window - but a deal did not materialise.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference this morning, Argyle manager Derek Adams confirmed that the 26-year-old was touch-and-go ahead of the game.

"We have got a doubt over Freddie Ladapo, who has got a thigh injury," he said.

"He hasn’t trained this week so he’s doubtful for the Sunderland game.

"He’s one of the goalscorers in the division and everybody would like to play at the Stadium of Light and go and show their talents.

"We will see if he’s able to come through the slight injury that he has."

The striker will form part of the club's squad that will travel to the North East before being assessed on the morning of the game. If he is unable to feature, then former Portsmouth striker Ryan Taylor is on standby to start.

Regardless of whether Ladapo is fit to feature, Adams is excited at the prospect of his side facing the Black Cats.

And while the Scot is relishing the fixture, he is keen not to dwell too much on the opposition or venue.

"I think it’s an opportunity for us to try and get another three points," added Adams.

"Going away from home, we have done well against Bradford and picked up some good points against Peterborough as well.

"The form that we are on, we are looking forward to going there and playing and trying to get another result.

"I’m not too into talking about the Stadium of Light. It’s just another venue. It’s a pitch that is 105 metres by 68 wide, it’s green grass and it’s the same wherever we go.

"I’m not going to dwell too much on Sunderland. I think that it’s important that we look at how well we have played in recent times.

"We scored five goals against Rochdale and created a number of opportunities in the game.

"We have obviously got players that can score goals and create chances, and we will need them on Saturday."