McGuire - no defensive worries for depleted Stags

Mansfield have the division’s joint best defensive record alongside Southend, but after Tuesday’s 0-0 battle at Bury, they now have John Dempster and James Jennings suspended and Martin Riley out injured for tomorrow.

But McGuire said: “Nothing will change. Whoever comes in will know their jobs. We are a team and know what to do.

“Plymouth will be tough but we will be fine. They are a young side, full of enthusiasm and they are not doing bad at the minute.

“We will have the fans behind us on Saturday and three points could take us third and kick us off on another run.”

Stags return home after two battling 0-0 draws on the road – just the sort of games the tigerish McGuire relishes.

“They were perfect games for me and two good draws,” he said. “We dug in well at Torquay and then at Bury, when John Dempster was sent off, we had to dig in again.

“I ended up at right back at Bury. Lee Beevers was talking to me throughout and I though JJ (Jennings) was brilliant at left back.”

Summer signing McGuire is enjoying every minute of life with Mansfield.

He smiled: “I love it here. The lads are great and I love coming into training and love playing Saturdays. I love playing in front of the fans even more and have a smile on my face.

“I had four years at Fleetwood and wasn’t sure if I should be moving on. But as a soon as Mansfield showed an interest it gave me the kick I needed and gave me my enthusiasm back.

“This is only my second year in the Football League and I am enjoying every minute. I love playing football – that’s me.”