PLYMOUTH Argaum vice-captain Dan James is set to miss the rest of the season after damaging his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL).

The powerful centre needs an operation on the knee injury, which he suffered in Argaum’s second match of the season against Withycombe.

“Within a couple of minutes of the game he tore it,” said Argaum’s assistant coach Mark Sulllivan. “He’s recovering now, but we have had to move guys around.”

Tom Holliday was initially appointed Argaum’s skipper, but he suffered a back injury, so vice-captain James took over.

Argaum are likely to be down to their fourth skipper this weekend when they play South West One side Teignmouth at Bickleigh Down in the Devon Senior Cup (3pm).

Mason Edwards has been captaining the team in the absence of Holliday and James, but he could missing this weekend.

If that is the case, John Ireland is likely to take over the role of leading the side against a team two divisions higher.

Argaum, who returned to winning ways last weekend by beating Tavistock 26-5 in the Cornwall/Devon League, know they will face a tough test this weekend against Teignmouth, who lie sixth in South West One having been beaten just twice this season.

“It’s good to play higher league opposition,” said Argaum spokesman Stuart Quarterman.

“And there is still pressure to do well, as the players will put pressure on themselves.”

Argaum have developed some good strength in depth in their squad over the last couple of years.

“I think the guys on the fringes are starting to step up and that’s really good for the team,” added assistant coach Sullivan. “They are challenging for spots.”

Meanwhile, Argaum’s colts travel to Devonport Services on Saturday (3pm).