Hazard's NI call-up not a worry for Plymouth boss

Plymouth Argyle boss Tom Cleverley says he is not worried about Conor Hazard being called up by Northern Ireland so soon after recovering from injury.

Hazard could return to action on Tuesday against Stevenage after three weeks out with a calf problem.

The 28-year-old, who has won 10 caps for his country, has had an injury-punctuated season after being hurt playing for Northern Ireland last June and missing the start of the season.

He has been included in Michael O'Neill's squad for their World Cup play-off semi-final in Italy.

"It was very expected that he would get the call-up," Cleverley told BBC Radio Devon.

"We've been in constant contact with them around his return to play, and it always looked like it was going to be tomorrow evening, so we knew he was going to be fit enough to perform for his country next Thursday.

"We're always proud when an Argyle player gets called up and represents the club on an international platform, so I'm pleased for Conor; I'm pleased for all the guys who get recognised internationally.

"It's an honour to represent your country, and we'll have no reservations about sending him away."

Hazard is one of three players who will return on Tuesday night, with Zimbabwe defender Brendan Galloway and the versatile Ayman Benarous also fit after spells on the sidelines.

Top scorer Lorent Tolaj could return on Saturday to face Huddersfield Town, while Wes Harding is also closing in on a return.

Cleverley says Hazard's and Galloway's experience is vital for his side: "They have impact off the pitch as well as on it.

"So to have those two back in the squad from a technical point of view is great, from an experience point of view, but also from an off-the-pitch and leadership point of view.

"Two of our senior performers this season, both returning, and the versatility of Ayman as well will be a good addition to the squad."