'Mature' Pepple impresses in wake of racial abuse

Bim Pepple has yet to score a goal for Plymouth Argyle since joining in the summer

Plymouth Argyle head coach Tom Cleverley says he has been impressed by the way striker Bim Pepple has handled racial abuse directed at him.

The Pilgrims released a statement on Wednesday condemning abuse the 22-year-old striker had been subjected to on social media following Argyle's 2-0 Vertu Trophy win over Cheltenham Town on Tuesday night.

Summer signing Pepple missed a penalty late in the game after coming on as a substitute.

"I think Bim's dealt with it remarkably well," Cleverley told BBC Radio Devon.

"He's a mature young man and he's impressed me over the last couple of days, but it's important that we let him know we're all there for him."

It is the second time in a month that Argyle have issued a statement after online abuse suffered by their players.

Brendan Wiredu was the subject of online abuse following Argyle's opening day loss at home to Barnsley.

Cleverley says Wiredu has come back stronger and expects Pepple to do likewise thanks to the support both players have had from supporters.

"One percent, or probably less than that, of football fans can be very, very abusive and sometimes overstep the mark, which is which is completely unacceptable," he said.

"But 99% of fans, when we see something like that happen, really rally around the player; I'm sure Bim will receive that support.

"He's not a guy who wants it to be all about him and he's probably thinking 'I'd rather take a back step', but our supporters will be there for him, they'll get right behind him and like Brendan he'll come out of this and stronger and better."

Cleverley added: "Although I can never relate to abuse over racial nature, I've suffered a fair bit of abuse in my career and I can try and help where I can."

Pepple moved to the club in the summer from Luton Town and has made eight appearances in all competitions.