Askey Relies on Fit Tyler Harvey for Truro's Revival

John Askey has a simple wish for this season: keep Tyler Harvey on the pitch, and the goals will follow.

Harvey, 31, has already offered a reminder of what he can do. He struck Truro City’s first goal of the campaign in last Saturday’s 2-0 win over Maidenhead United, setting the tone for a National League South opener that felt like a reset for a club still stung by relegation.

Two seasons ago, Harvey was the heartbeat of Truro’s surge. Twenty-five league goals, a title, and promotion from National League South in 2024-25. He led the line, dragged defenders around, and carried the Cornish side into the fifth tier for the first time in their history.

Last season told a very different story.

Injuries bit, rhythm vanished, and Harvey managed just five goals in 25 appearances as Truro went straight back down from the National League. The numbers alone show the drop-off, but Askey insists the context matters.

“Tyler, for the majority of the season last season wasn’t properly fit,” he told BBC Radio Cornwall, laying bare the frustration of a campaign spent patching up his main striker. The message now is clear: protect him, manage him, and build around him.

“We’re just hoping that he can stay fit for all the season because he does make a difference to us,” Askey said. “He’s proven time and time again in this league that he can get goals which are going to be vital for us.”

Harvey’s importance to Truro stretches beyond the penalty area. A former Plymouth Argyle youngster, he has been central to the club’s climb from the seventh tier to the brink of the EFL pyramid. That journey has shaped him into more than just a finisher.

Askey sees it every week.

“He’s got a good football brain,” the manager said, looking ahead to this Saturday’s trip to Chelmsford City. “Not only does he get goals, he creates chances for other people as well and when he’s on full form he makes a big difference to us.”

So the plan is cautious, almost protective. Training loads monitored. Minutes managed. Risks weighed against the value of having their main forward sharp in the spring, not just in August.

“We just have to manage his injuries and hopefully he’ll play the majority of the games,” Askey added.

If that happens, Truro know exactly what kind of season Harvey is capable of turning into.