https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/ Fri, 03 Apr 2026 19:52:26 +0000 MyBB https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=13977 Thu, 02 Oct 2025 14:01:23 +0000 themaclad]]> https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=13977
Cheltenham-born Cotterill spent five years in charge of his hometown team, winning three promotions and the FA Trophy as he took them from the Southern Premier Division to the Football League for the first time.

He was most recently sacked from Forest Green Rovers in June and returns to Whaddon Road 10 days after Michael Flynn was sacked with the club bottom of the table.

"I am very pleased to confirm that Steve Cotterill is returning to us as manager," said chairman David Bloxham.

"Those are words many people never thought they would hear, but having held discussions with Steve and his agent over the past few days, we all believe that the time is right for him to return.

"Steve is a manager with vast experience and a record of success going back many years.

"I think it's fair to say that we would not be able to attract someone with his record of success unless he wanted the opportunity to rejoin his hometown club and the place where it all began for him."

Assistant manager Aaron Downes - who took interim charge of the team and oversaw Saturday's 7-1 defeat by Grimsby - is to step down from his role.

Cotterill is a popular figure, having overseen the most successful period in Cheltenham's history, having been in charge of the Robins from 1997 to 2002.

The 61-year-old took them from the sixth tier through the National League up to League Two in four campaigns and also won the FA Trophy in 1998.

In 2009, he turned down the chance to return to the club saying, his "heart told me 'yes', but my head told me 'no'."

The appointment links him up with new Cheltenham owner Mike Garlick, who took over the club on 23 August and who Cotterill worked with when he was manager of Burnley, during Garlick's 17 years on the board at Turf Moor.

Cotterill has worked across the EFL during his time away from Cheltenham, also winning promotions with Notts County and Bristol City - the latter the League One and EFL Trophy double in 2015.

He has also worked at Nottingham Forest, Portsmouth, Birmingham and Shrewsbury.

Cheltenham have endured a difficult start to 2025-26, winning just one of their 10 matches so far and scoring only four goals, and sit at the foot of the Football League.

Director of football Gary Johnson also resigned from his role three days before Flynn's exit.

Bloxham said he wanted to thank fans for their "patience" and "forbearance".

"The directors and former principle shareholders have worked really hard over the past few months to bring new ownership to Cheltenham Town and to restructure the football management in order to give us the best chance to improve and move forward," Bloxham said.

"We have all been bitterly disappointed by our start to the season, but positive action has been taken, and there are still a lot of games left for us to turn things around."]]>
Cheltenham-born Cotterill spent five years in charge of his hometown team, winning three promotions and the FA Trophy as he took them from the Southern Premier Division to the Football League for the first time.

He was most recently sacked from Forest Green Rovers in June and returns to Whaddon Road 10 days after Michael Flynn was sacked with the club bottom of the table.

"I am very pleased to confirm that Steve Cotterill is returning to us as manager," said chairman David Bloxham.

"Those are words many people never thought they would hear, but having held discussions with Steve and his agent over the past few days, we all believe that the time is right for him to return.

"Steve is a manager with vast experience and a record of success going back many years.

"I think it's fair to say that we would not be able to attract someone with his record of success unless he wanted the opportunity to rejoin his hometown club and the place where it all began for him."

Assistant manager Aaron Downes - who took interim charge of the team and oversaw Saturday's 7-1 defeat by Grimsby - is to step down from his role.

Cotterill is a popular figure, having overseen the most successful period in Cheltenham's history, having been in charge of the Robins from 1997 to 2002.

The 61-year-old took them from the sixth tier through the National League up to League Two in four campaigns and also won the FA Trophy in 1998.

In 2009, he turned down the chance to return to the club saying, his "heart told me 'yes', but my head told me 'no'."

The appointment links him up with new Cheltenham owner Mike Garlick, who took over the club on 23 August and who Cotterill worked with when he was manager of Burnley, during Garlick's 17 years on the board at Turf Moor.

Cotterill has worked across the EFL during his time away from Cheltenham, also winning promotions with Notts County and Bristol City - the latter the League One and EFL Trophy double in 2015.

He has also worked at Nottingham Forest, Portsmouth, Birmingham and Shrewsbury.

Cheltenham have endured a difficult start to 2025-26, winning just one of their 10 matches so far and scoring only four goals, and sit at the foot of the Football League.

Director of football Gary Johnson also resigned from his role three days before Flynn's exit.

Bloxham said he wanted to thank fans for their "patience" and "forbearance".

"The directors and former principle shareholders have worked really hard over the past few months to bring new ownership to Cheltenham Town and to restructure the football management in order to give us the best chance to improve and move forward," Bloxham said.

"We have all been bitterly disappointed by our start to the season, but positive action has been taken, and there are still a lot of games left for us to turn things around."]]> https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=13956 Sun, 21 Sep 2025 08:18:18 +0000 themaclad]]> https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=13956
The loss was the Robins' ninth in 12 matches across all competitions this season.

Only one of those wins have come from nine league matches to date, leaving them at the foot of the English Football League.

Flynn had been in charge of Cheltenham since May 2024 and guided them to 15th place in the table last season.

In a 48-word statement confirming his departure on the club website,, external Cheltenham thanked Flynn for "his efforts and contributions".

Talking after Saturday's defeat by Oldham, in what proved to be his final post-match interview as Cheltenham boss, Flynn predicted his exit as he lamented a performance that was "nowhere near good enough and unacceptable".

"Performances like that get you the sack, I can't be any more honest than that," he told BBC Radio Gloucestershire.

"I can take responsibility for certain things, but I'm not just going to blame myself for that performance today from that group of players

Asked if he felt he was about to get the sack, Flynn replied: "I hope not, because I really love this club and enjoy working here.

"But it is a results business and I'm not stupid. I'm someone that is going to come out here and speak open and honest, whether that is good or bad. And things have to improve.

"And if I still am [in charge] they have to improve quick."

New owner Mike Garlick completed his takeover of the club on 23 August and had appeared to back the Welshman, saying Flynn was "the man" to turn the results around despite a run of five straight league defeats at the time.

Yet with one win in the four League Two matches that have followed, Garlick has decided to make a change.

Cheltenham are now looking for their fourth manager since 2022, following Wade Elliott, Darrell Clarke and now Flynn.]]>
The loss was the Robins' ninth in 12 matches across all competitions this season.

Only one of those wins have come from nine league matches to date, leaving them at the foot of the English Football League.

Flynn had been in charge of Cheltenham since May 2024 and guided them to 15th place in the table last season.

In a 48-word statement confirming his departure on the club website,, external Cheltenham thanked Flynn for "his efforts and contributions".

Talking after Saturday's defeat by Oldham, in what proved to be his final post-match interview as Cheltenham boss, Flynn predicted his exit as he lamented a performance that was "nowhere near good enough and unacceptable".

"Performances like that get you the sack, I can't be any more honest than that," he told BBC Radio Gloucestershire.

"I can take responsibility for certain things, but I'm not just going to blame myself for that performance today from that group of players

Asked if he felt he was about to get the sack, Flynn replied: "I hope not, because I really love this club and enjoy working here.

"But it is a results business and I'm not stupid. I'm someone that is going to come out here and speak open and honest, whether that is good or bad. And things have to improve.

"And if I still am [in charge] they have to improve quick."

New owner Mike Garlick completed his takeover of the club on 23 August and had appeared to back the Welshman, saying Flynn was "the man" to turn the results around despite a run of five straight league defeats at the time.

Yet with one win in the four League Two matches that have followed, Garlick has decided to make a change.

Cheltenham are now looking for their fourth manager since 2022, following Wade Elliott, Darrell Clarke and now Flynn.]]> https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=13915 Mon, 25 Aug 2025 06:35:12 +0000 themaclad]]> https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=13915
The 61-year-old entered a period of exclusivity with the League Two side in June and has now "completed his acquisition of a controlling interest in the club combined with a commitment for future investment".

Garlick told the club's website, external: "I met some of the board members back in May and visited the stadium and training ground. From that moment on I knew this was the club I wanted to be part of.

"I believe firmly in evolution rather than revolution and step-by-step we will seek to drive the club forward both on and off the pitch, whilst remaining firmly rooted in our local community and loyal fan base."
Garlick spent 17 years on the board at Turf Moor before he left in 2023, including eight as club chairman during which the Clarets twice won promotion to the Premier League.

He also owns Gibraltar top-flight club St Joseph's and third tier Spanish side FC Antequera.

Garlick and his wife Alison will now join the Cheltenham board.

Meanwhile, John Murphy has retired from the board but will become the club's honorary president for a five-year term.

Chairman David Bloxham explained that the club have been operating with "financial and practical restraints" and that it "has been a source of frustration that we have been unable to undertake significant improvements to facilities and infrastructure or retain our best staff".

Bloxham added: "Mike Garlick brings with him a great deal of football knowledge and experience which I am confident will bring significant benefits and growth to our club."

Cheltenham confirmed last October that they were looking for "substantial" new investment with three of their four biggest shareholders willing to sell their stakes in the club.

The Robins had been owned by an array of shareholders, with the supporter-led Robins Trust having the third largest stake at 16% as of March 2024.

The Trust retain their share as the second-largest shareholders.

The rest of the ownership remains split between a large number of minor investors. However unlike other clubs, the board of directors - appointed by the shareholders - run the club rather than the owners.

Cheltenham finished 15th in League Two in 2024-25, with 15th in League One achieved in 2021-22 - their highest-ever finish in the English Football League.

Michael Flynn's side are currently bottom of League Two, without a point from their opening four games, going into Saturday's visit of Barnet.]]>
The 61-year-old entered a period of exclusivity with the League Two side in June and has now "completed his acquisition of a controlling interest in the club combined with a commitment for future investment".

Garlick told the club's website, external: "I met some of the board members back in May and visited the stadium and training ground. From that moment on I knew this was the club I wanted to be part of.

"I believe firmly in evolution rather than revolution and step-by-step we will seek to drive the club forward both on and off the pitch, whilst remaining firmly rooted in our local community and loyal fan base."
Garlick spent 17 years on the board at Turf Moor before he left in 2023, including eight as club chairman during which the Clarets twice won promotion to the Premier League.

He also owns Gibraltar top-flight club St Joseph's and third tier Spanish side FC Antequera.

Garlick and his wife Alison will now join the Cheltenham board.

Meanwhile, John Murphy has retired from the board but will become the club's honorary president for a five-year term.

Chairman David Bloxham explained that the club have been operating with "financial and practical restraints" and that it "has been a source of frustration that we have been unable to undertake significant improvements to facilities and infrastructure or retain our best staff".

Bloxham added: "Mike Garlick brings with him a great deal of football knowledge and experience which I am confident will bring significant benefits and growth to our club."

Cheltenham confirmed last October that they were looking for "substantial" new investment with three of their four biggest shareholders willing to sell their stakes in the club.

The Robins had been owned by an array of shareholders, with the supporter-led Robins Trust having the third largest stake at 16% as of March 2024.

The Trust retain their share as the second-largest shareholders.

The rest of the ownership remains split between a large number of minor investors. However unlike other clubs, the board of directors - appointed by the shareholders - run the club rather than the owners.

Cheltenham finished 15th in League Two in 2024-25, with 15th in League One achieved in 2021-22 - their highest-ever finish in the English Football League.

Michael Flynn's side are currently bottom of League Two, without a point from their opening four games, going into Saturday's visit of Barnet.]]> https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=13151 Fri, 31 May 2024 15:58:54 +0000 themaclad]]> https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=13151
Flynn, 43, has been out of work since losing his job as Swindon Town manager in January.

He lost 10 of his final 15 matches in charge at the County Ground having taken over last summer.

Flynn spent more than four years in charge of Newport County from October 2017 and had 14 months as manager at Walsall before being sacked in November 2023.

He replaces Darrell Clarke at Whaddon Road after the former Robins boss left the club to take over at League One side Barnsley following their relegation to League Two at the end of last season.

Flynn joins the club a week after former manager Gary Johnson returned to become director of football.]]>
Flynn, 43, has been out of work since losing his job as Swindon Town manager in January.

He lost 10 of his final 15 matches in charge at the County Ground having taken over last summer.

Flynn spent more than four years in charge of Newport County from October 2017 and had 14 months as manager at Walsall before being sacked in November 2023.

He replaces Darrell Clarke at Whaddon Road after the former Robins boss left the club to take over at League One side Barnsley following their relegation to League Two at the end of last season.

Flynn joins the club a week after former manager Gary Johnson returned to become director of football.]]> https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=12631 Sun, 01 Oct 2023 07:00:27 +0000 themaclad]]> https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=12631
Clarke was most recently sacked by Port Vale in April, having guided the club to promotion to League One in 2021-22.

The 45-year-old succeeds Wade Elliott who left the Robins last week following a winless start to the season.

Cheltenham are bottom of League One and have yet to score a goal in their first nine league games this season.

Clarke takes over the Gloucestershire club in the midst of a poor run that has seen them take only one point this season so far and go more than 13-and-a-half hours without scoring a goal, setting a new English Football League record.

Assistant manager Kevin Russell, who has been in caretaker charge, will remain in place for the trip to Lincoln on Saturday.

Clarke spent four-and-a-half years at Bristol Rovers, with the club winning successive promotions from the National League to League One.

He joined the Saddlers in May 2019 before leaving to join Port Vale in May 2021.]]>
Clarke was most recently sacked by Port Vale in April, having guided the club to promotion to League One in 2021-22.

The 45-year-old succeeds Wade Elliott who left the Robins last week following a winless start to the season.

Cheltenham are bottom of League One and have yet to score a goal in their first nine league games this season.

Clarke takes over the Gloucestershire club in the midst of a poor run that has seen them take only one point this season so far and go more than 13-and-a-half hours without scoring a goal, setting a new English Football League record.

Assistant manager Kevin Russell, who has been in caretaker charge, will remain in place for the trip to Lincoln on Saturday.

Clarke spent four-and-a-half years at Bristol Rovers, with the club winning successive promotions from the National League to League One.

He joined the Saddlers in May 2019 before leaving to join Port Vale in May 2021.]]> https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=12343 Fri, 12 May 2023 16:50:34 +0000 themaclad]]> https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=12343
The 30-year-old has mutually agreed to leave on a free transfer after joining the club in 2019.

Forwards Charlie Brown, Callum Ebanks and Christian Norton, goalkeeper Shaun MacDonald and midfielders Dylan Barkers and Zac Guinan have also been released.

Liam Sercombe, Ryan Broom, Adulai Sambu, Max Harris and Ryan Jackson have all been offered new contracts.

Discussions remain ongoing with Grant Horton and Reece Hutchinson, who are both on loan at clubs in Ireland where the league is ongoing, regarding their contracts.

Centre-back Raglan made more than 160 appearances for the Robins after joining from Oxford United, including 30 in all competitions this season.]]>
The 30-year-old has mutually agreed to leave on a free transfer after joining the club in 2019.

Forwards Charlie Brown, Callum Ebanks and Christian Norton, goalkeeper Shaun MacDonald and midfielders Dylan Barkers and Zac Guinan have also been released.

Liam Sercombe, Ryan Broom, Adulai Sambu, Max Harris and Ryan Jackson have all been offered new contracts.

Discussions remain ongoing with Grant Horton and Reece Hutchinson, who are both on loan at clubs in Ireland where the league is ongoing, regarding their contracts.

Centre-back Raglan made more than 160 appearances for the Robins after joining from Oxford United, including 30 in all competitions this season.]]> https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=11703 Mon, 12 Sep 2022 18:30:43 +0000 themaclad]]> https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=11703
The 33-year-old joined the club at the start of the 2020-21 season and helped them gain promotion to League One.

"I've made this decision due to a lack of options really," Blair said.

"The options would have meant less time being spent with my family due to not being able to walk for a couple days after games, or have an operation which would have a two-year recovery period."

Blair made more than 90 appearances for the Robins in all competitions over two seasons, scoring five goals.

He missed four games at the end of last season due to a lingering knee injury.

"The football club have been nothing short of incredible and we've come to this decision that's best for all parties," the defender said.

Blair started his career in non-league football and won promotion to the Football League with York City in 2012.

In the next ten seasons he played over 300 league games with seven teams in League One and League Two and scored 30 goals in all competitions.

"I never would've dreamt for of doing some of the things I have in the lower leagues. There will always be people who'll say, 'well you never played in the Championship,' but you're talking to someone who never thought they'd even become a professional footballer.

"I just did it for the enjoyment and I've received a lot of very positive feedback throughout my career that I'll be truly grateful for."

Cheltenham Town defender Matty Blair
Matty Blair (centre) says he has run out of options to continue playing due to a lingering knee injury
Cheltenham Town thanked Blair for his service on their website and head coach Wade Elliott praised him for his attitude on and off the field.

"It has been a pleasure to work with Matthew. The player you see on the pitch reflects what we have come to know as a person - wholehearted, honest, positive and energetic.

"Most importantly he is a good human being and his contribution on and off the pitch over the past two years can't be understated.

"Matthew will always be a friend of the football club, and we look forward to welcoming him back in the future."

Cheltenham Town are currently 22nd in the League One table with just one win from seven matches.

They host Cambridge United tomorrow night.]]>
The 33-year-old joined the club at the start of the 2020-21 season and helped them gain promotion to League One.

"I've made this decision due to a lack of options really," Blair said.

"The options would have meant less time being spent with my family due to not being able to walk for a couple days after games, or have an operation which would have a two-year recovery period."

Blair made more than 90 appearances for the Robins in all competitions over two seasons, scoring five goals.

He missed four games at the end of last season due to a lingering knee injury.

"The football club have been nothing short of incredible and we've come to this decision that's best for all parties," the defender said.

Blair started his career in non-league football and won promotion to the Football League with York City in 2012.

In the next ten seasons he played over 300 league games with seven teams in League One and League Two and scored 30 goals in all competitions.

"I never would've dreamt for of doing some of the things I have in the lower leagues. There will always be people who'll say, 'well you never played in the Championship,' but you're talking to someone who never thought they'd even become a professional footballer.

"I just did it for the enjoyment and I've received a lot of very positive feedback throughout my career that I'll be truly grateful for."

Cheltenham Town defender Matty Blair
Matty Blair (centre) says he has run out of options to continue playing due to a lingering knee injury
Cheltenham Town thanked Blair for his service on their website and head coach Wade Elliott praised him for his attitude on and off the field.

"It has been a pleasure to work with Matthew. The player you see on the pitch reflects what we have come to know as a person - wholehearted, honest, positive and energetic.

"Most importantly he is a good human being and his contribution on and off the pitch over the past two years can't be understated.

"Matthew will always be a friend of the football club, and we look forward to welcoming him back in the future."

Cheltenham Town are currently 22nd in the League One table with just one win from seven matches.

They host Cambridge United tomorrow night.]]> https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=11550 Thu, 21 Jul 2022 07:01:31 +0000 themaclad]]> https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=11550 Cheltenham Town enjoyed their highest-ever league finish in 2021-22
Cheltenham Town chairman David Bloxham said the purchase of the club's training complex will help make the club more "secure" for the future.

The Robins completed the deal on the 22-acre facility in Swindon Village, which they have used for 20 years.

The previous deal saw them rent the facilities from insurance firm Zurich, as tenants.

"We had the facilities there but only a limited amount of security," Bloxham told BBC Radio Gloucestershire.

"We could at any time effectively have been asked to end the lease at the end of the term and we then would have been looking for a new home.

"Acquiring the freehold to the training ground is something which offers so many benefits to the club."

Since 2013 the club have expanded to take over the complex, just outside Cheltenham.

As well as being the Robins' training base, it is also the location for reserve and academy games.

"The training ground will give us great options going forward and I think it will allow us to build a stronger financial base which in turn will enable us to maintain a very good playing budget going forward," Bloxham continued.

Cheltenham came 14th in League One last year, their highest finish since being promoted to the English Football League for the first time in 1999.

Former first-team coach Wade Elliott was promoted to head coach in June following the departure of Michael Duff, who had steered the club to League One.

"We have garnered transfer fees and our playing budget has gone up several fold over the last few years, so it's not as if we've sacrificed playing budget.

"You have build for the future, you have to make sure the club is secure and we've been very prudent and the money that we've had in terms of transfer fees has been very well used by this club."

Bloxham also confirmed that redeveloping the club's Completely Suzuki Stadium at Whaddon Road remains on the "wishlist" for the future.

"Of course we've got to try and do something, because we need to improve the facilities, we need to improve the income streams for the club and I think the ground redevelopment, once we've managed to achieve that, is something which can take us onto the next level."

Analysis
Peter Matthews, BBC Radio Gloucestershire

This is a significant step for the Robins who now have a potentially appreciating asset and will no longer, of course, have to pay rent to their landlords.

The club has made major strides on the pitch in the last few seasons, this is the beginnings of trying to ensure the infrastructure off the field matches the progress being made on the field, under David Bloxham's leadership.]]> Cheltenham Town enjoyed their highest-ever league finish in 2021-22
Cheltenham Town chairman David Bloxham said the purchase of the club's training complex will help make the club more "secure" for the future.

The Robins completed the deal on the 22-acre facility in Swindon Village, which they have used for 20 years.

The previous deal saw them rent the facilities from insurance firm Zurich, as tenants.

"We had the facilities there but only a limited amount of security," Bloxham told BBC Radio Gloucestershire.

"We could at any time effectively have been asked to end the lease at the end of the term and we then would have been looking for a new home.

"Acquiring the freehold to the training ground is something which offers so many benefits to the club."

Since 2013 the club have expanded to take over the complex, just outside Cheltenham.

As well as being the Robins' training base, it is also the location for reserve and academy games.

"The training ground will give us great options going forward and I think it will allow us to build a stronger financial base which in turn will enable us to maintain a very good playing budget going forward," Bloxham continued.

Cheltenham came 14th in League One last year, their highest finish since being promoted to the English Football League for the first time in 1999.

Former first-team coach Wade Elliott was promoted to head coach in June following the departure of Michael Duff, who had steered the club to League One.

"We have garnered transfer fees and our playing budget has gone up several fold over the last few years, so it's not as if we've sacrificed playing budget.

"You have build for the future, you have to make sure the club is secure and we've been very prudent and the money that we've had in terms of transfer fees has been very well used by this club."

Bloxham also confirmed that redeveloping the club's Completely Suzuki Stadium at Whaddon Road remains on the "wishlist" for the future.

"Of course we've got to try and do something, because we need to improve the facilities, we need to improve the income streams for the club and I think the ground redevelopment, once we've managed to achieve that, is something which can take us onto the next level."

Analysis
Peter Matthews, BBC Radio Gloucestershire

This is a significant step for the Robins who now have a potentially appreciating asset and will no longer, of course, have to pay rent to their landlords.

The club has made major strides on the pitch in the last few seasons, this is the beginnings of trying to ensure the infrastructure off the field matches the progress being made on the field, under David Bloxham's leadership.]]> https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=11502 Mon, 27 Jun 2022 11:51:10 +0000 themaclad]]> https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=11502
Elliott has signed a two-year deal with the League One club.

The former midfielder joined the Robins' coaching staff in 2020 and helped steer them to a highest-ever finish of 14th in League One last year.

The 43-year-old played for Bournemouth, Burnley, Birmingham City and Bristol City during his playing career.

"It's been a very intense couple of weeks but we believe we have arrived at the correct decision for Cheltenham Town football club at this moment in time," said Cheltenham chairman David Bloxham.

"The board set out with a clear criteria for the type of coach we wanted and one of the key requirements was to try to continue the excellent progress we have experienced over the last three years.

"In the end, we believed that Wade's knowledge and understanding of the club, its staff and players made him uniquely placed to take us forward."

Elliott's playing career began in non-league football for Bashley in the Southern League. He was signed by Bournemouth in 2000 and went on to make more than 250 appearances for the club.

He joined Burnley in 2005, where he was a team-mate of Duff, and scored the winning goal in the play-off final when the Clarets secured promotion to the Premier League in 2009.

Elliott moved to Bristol City in 2014, where he was also club captain, and stayed on the coaching staff when he retired in 2015 after more than 700 games in the English Football League.

After coaching the under-21 side at Bristol City, Elliott worked with Forest Green Rovers' academy squad and was also the under-23 assistant manager at Stoke City before joining Cheltenham.]]>
Elliott has signed a two-year deal with the League One club.

The former midfielder joined the Robins' coaching staff in 2020 and helped steer them to a highest-ever finish of 14th in League One last year.

The 43-year-old played for Bournemouth, Burnley, Birmingham City and Bristol City during his playing career.

"It's been a very intense couple of weeks but we believe we have arrived at the correct decision for Cheltenham Town football club at this moment in time," said Cheltenham chairman David Bloxham.

"The board set out with a clear criteria for the type of coach we wanted and one of the key requirements was to try to continue the excellent progress we have experienced over the last three years.

"In the end, we believed that Wade's knowledge and understanding of the club, its staff and players made him uniquely placed to take us forward."

Elliott's playing career began in non-league football for Bashley in the Southern League. He was signed by Bournemouth in 2000 and went on to make more than 250 appearances for the club.

He joined Burnley in 2005, where he was a team-mate of Duff, and scored the winning goal in the play-off final when the Clarets secured promotion to the Premier League in 2009.

Elliott moved to Bristol City in 2014, where he was also club captain, and stayed on the coaching staff when he retired in 2015 after more than 700 games in the English Football League.

After coaching the under-21 side at Bristol City, Elliott worked with Forest Green Rovers' academy squad and was also the under-23 assistant manager at Stoke City before joining Cheltenham.]]> https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=11337 Wed, 18 May 2022 14:15:41 +0000 themaclad]]> https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=11337
The 32-year-old, who moved to Whaddon Road almost two years ago from Bristol Rovers, has played 88 times for the Robins in all competitions.

The former Exeter City and Oxford United player is approaching 600 career matches and has won promotion to the third tier three times in his career.

He played 46 games in 2021-22 as the Robins finished in 15th place.]]>
The 32-year-old, who moved to Whaddon Road almost two years ago from Bristol Rovers, has played 88 times for the Robins in all competitions.

The former Exeter City and Oxford United player is approaching 600 career matches and has won promotion to the third tier three times in his career.

He played 46 games in 2021-22 as the Robins finished in 15th place.]]> https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=10407 Sun, 09 May 2021 10:21:06 +0000 silverbaggie]]> https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=10407
For the first time in their long history (1887) Cheltenham Town have their first league silverware but, what a match to end the season.

Fair play to Harrogate they came to attack. No parking the bus for them and, why would they having put 5 goals past Cambridge the week before.
It took only 7 minutes for the first goal but, from a Robins supporter's view point at the wrong end. A cross from Harrogate's left seemed destined to go out of play but, somehow was hooked back across goal for Muldoon to score with a stooping header.
The Robins should have been back on level terms almost immediately when Alfie May was put through one on one with the goalkeeper. His first shot was charged down on the edge of the penalty area but, rebounded straight back to May who with the goal at his mercy managed to miss the target from just inside the box.
Fortunately within another couple of minutes Sercombe made amends with a low shot from 20 yards which somehow squirmed under Harrogate's goalkeeper. Now the game was back to even and both sides went at it 'hammer and tong'.
In the 22nd minute Smith made it 2-1 to the Robins when he hooked the ball home from about 5 yards.
Ten minutes later the Robins further increased their lead when Alfie May added a third, also from close range.

The second half started with Harrogate on the front foot but the Robins defence held out and on 55 minutes Callum Wright, on loan from Leicester City, added a fourth from just inside the penalty area. That was the pick of the Robin's four goals and finally put the issue beyond doubt.

I think praise is due to the Harrogate team who came to play attacking football but, ultimately paid the price.

Silverbaggie signing off!!]]>
For the first time in their long history (1887) Cheltenham Town have their first league silverware but, what a match to end the season.

Fair play to Harrogate they came to attack. No parking the bus for them and, why would they having put 5 goals past Cambridge the week before.
It took only 7 minutes for the first goal but, from a Robins supporter's view point at the wrong end. A cross from Harrogate's left seemed destined to go out of play but, somehow was hooked back across goal for Muldoon to score with a stooping header.
The Robins should have been back on level terms almost immediately when Alfie May was put through one on one with the goalkeeper. His first shot was charged down on the edge of the penalty area but, rebounded straight back to May who with the goal at his mercy managed to miss the target from just inside the box.
Fortunately within another couple of minutes Sercombe made amends with a low shot from 20 yards which somehow squirmed under Harrogate's goalkeeper. Now the game was back to even and both sides went at it 'hammer and tong'.
In the 22nd minute Smith made it 2-1 to the Robins when he hooked the ball home from about 5 yards.
Ten minutes later the Robins further increased their lead when Alfie May added a third, also from close range.

The second half started with Harrogate on the front foot but the Robins defence held out and on 55 minutes Callum Wright, on loan from Leicester City, added a fourth from just inside the penalty area. That was the pick of the Robin's four goals and finally put the issue beyond doubt.

I think praise is due to the Harrogate team who came to play attacking football but, ultimately paid the price.

Silverbaggie signing off!!]]> https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=10387 Sun, 02 May 2021 07:39:15 +0000 silverbaggie]]> https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=10387
Manager Mike Duff caused a surprise by changing his tried and trusted formation to 3-4-3 with May, Smith and Lloyd playing up front.
None of these players are anywhere near six foot tall and to be frank the system was not likely to work against a strong and rugged Newport team.

A very early goal by Newport skipper Josh Labadie settled this tie as early as the fourth minute when he hit a 25 yard screamer past Griffiths.

To be fair, the Robins could not adapt to the pitch which was bone hard, dry and gave the home team a complete advantage.
For the best part of half an hour Cheltenham were under the cosh and could have been 3-0 down but for incredible saves by on loan goalkeeper Josh Griffiths. Cheltenham gradually came into it but, their normal efficient passing game was nigh impossible on this scrapheap of a pitch.

There was some controversy soon after going behind, when the Robins justified appeal for a penalty was turned down. Indeed the referee was poor throughout and allowed several agricultural challenges, mainly by Newport, to go unpunished.

The second half saw Duff make several changes to give the Robins more control in midfield. The Newport players, hoping to gain 3 points to possibly gain a play off place began to sit deeper and deeper to protect their lead. By the end of the game, such was the defensive tactics employed by Newport that Cheltenham, over the 90 minutes, had 58% possession.

But the story nevertheless still has a very strange ending as both of the Robins main rivals, also lost. Bolton conceded an injury time goal to lose 1-2 to Exeter and the Robins next opponents, Harrogate had won a crazy nine goal thriller against Cambridge the night before.

So all three main contenders blew up on the finishing line but, now only Cambridge can stop the Robins claiming the League 2 title!!

   ]]>
Manager Mike Duff caused a surprise by changing his tried and trusted formation to 3-4-3 with May, Smith and Lloyd playing up front.
None of these players are anywhere near six foot tall and to be frank the system was not likely to work against a strong and rugged Newport team.

A very early goal by Newport skipper Josh Labadie settled this tie as early as the fourth minute when he hit a 25 yard screamer past Griffiths.

To be fair, the Robins could not adapt to the pitch which was bone hard, dry and gave the home team a complete advantage.
For the best part of half an hour Cheltenham were under the cosh and could have been 3-0 down but for incredible saves by on loan goalkeeper Josh Griffiths. Cheltenham gradually came into it but, their normal efficient passing game was nigh impossible on this scrapheap of a pitch.

There was some controversy soon after going behind, when the Robins justified appeal for a penalty was turned down. Indeed the referee was poor throughout and allowed several agricultural challenges, mainly by Newport, to go unpunished.

The second half saw Duff make several changes to give the Robins more control in midfield. The Newport players, hoping to gain 3 points to possibly gain a play off place began to sit deeper and deeper to protect their lead. By the end of the game, such was the defensive tactics employed by Newport that Cheltenham, over the 90 minutes, had 58% possession.

But the story nevertheless still has a very strange ending as both of the Robins main rivals, also lost. Bolton conceded an injury time goal to lose 1-2 to Exeter and the Robins next opponents, Harrogate had won a crazy nine goal thriller against Cambridge the night before.

So all three main contenders blew up on the finishing line but, now only Cambridge can stop the Robins claiming the League 2 title!!

   ]]> https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=10383 Wed, 28 Apr 2021 08:28:04 +0000 silverbaggie]]> https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=10383
Yes it's true.
The Robins got the point that they needed for automatic promotion but, oh boy, wasn't it a struggle.

To be fair, I thought, before the match, that the one point we needed was almost a given as Carlisle had drawn four of their last five games.(Now 5 of last 6)
But, Carlisle obviously had ambitions of their own as, at present, they are just outside the play off places.

The Robins started brightly and were well on top for the first 20 minutes but, without really making any clear cut chances.
After that Carlisle stared to boss the game and in the 33rd minute took the lead. A free kick on the right some 30 yards out found Kayode at the far post and he headed back across goal beating Josh Griffiths in the air.

I can imagine that the air in the Robin's dressing room was blue during the half time interval.
Whatever was said; it worked.!

Cheltenham now played a higher line and had Carlisle on the backfoot. There were some cynical fouls going in to frustrate the Robin's attacks.
Finally, in the 56th minute the Robins were awarded yet another free kick. This time perhaps 25 yards out and slightly right of centre.
Chris Hussey, whom of late, has not been his usual very effective self, stepped up to take it.
Carlisle had made a huge wall of at least 6 players in the line of fire and there seemed no way Chris could score from there.

Somehow he did. A brilliant bending free kick that struck the underside of the bar and bounced down over the line.
Another contender for goal of the season at least but, strangely only the first goal this season for Hussey.

The game now became end to end with both sets of players seeking to win the game.
Cheltenham had a chance late on when Carlisle were caught too far forward and the Robins had a 3 against 2 advantage as they raced into Carlisle's half. The chance went a begging.

BUT we are up anyway. Well done to all involved.    ]]>
Yes it's true.
The Robins got the point that they needed for automatic promotion but, oh boy, wasn't it a struggle.

To be fair, I thought, before the match, that the one point we needed was almost a given as Carlisle had drawn four of their last five games.(Now 5 of last 6)
But, Carlisle obviously had ambitions of their own as, at present, they are just outside the play off places.

The Robins started brightly and were well on top for the first 20 minutes but, without really making any clear cut chances.
After that Carlisle stared to boss the game and in the 33rd minute took the lead. A free kick on the right some 30 yards out found Kayode at the far post and he headed back across goal beating Josh Griffiths in the air.

I can imagine that the air in the Robin's dressing room was blue during the half time interval.
Whatever was said; it worked.!

Cheltenham now played a higher line and had Carlisle on the backfoot. There were some cynical fouls going in to frustrate the Robin's attacks.
Finally, in the 56th minute the Robins were awarded yet another free kick. This time perhaps 25 yards out and slightly right of centre.
Chris Hussey, whom of late, has not been his usual very effective self, stepped up to take it.
Carlisle had made a huge wall of at least 6 players in the line of fire and there seemed no way Chris could score from there.

Somehow he did. A brilliant bending free kick that struck the underside of the bar and bounced down over the line.
Another contender for goal of the season at least but, strangely only the first goal this season for Hussey.

The game now became end to end with both sets of players seeking to win the game.
Cheltenham had a chance late on when Carlisle were caught too far forward and the Robins had a 3 against 2 advantage as they raced into Carlisle's half. The chance went a begging.

BUT we are up anyway. Well done to all involved.    ]]> https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=10374 Mon, 26 Apr 2021 14:40:15 +0000 silverbaggie]]> https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=10374
How many of our games lately have we won 1-0.??
Reminds me of a certain season some years ago when the Baggies gained promotion with similar score lines.

However another nervy scrappy display at best with Connor Thomas scoring the only goal with a two yard tap in. Even then it was in the eighty something minute.

Former Robins player Harry Pell, now Captain of Colchester, was very fortunate to stay on the park. Midway through the first half he pole axed a Cheltenham player with a two footed tackle that really warranted red.

Well now we need at most only one more point to secure automatic promotion and perhaps a couple more to win League 2 outright.

I am reliably informed that, although promoted to league one twice before, it has previously only been through the play offs.

So t'would be nice to get some silverware.

So Come on you Robins ]]>
How many of our games lately have we won 1-0.??
Reminds me of a certain season some years ago when the Baggies gained promotion with similar score lines.

However another nervy scrappy display at best with Connor Thomas scoring the only goal with a two yard tap in. Even then it was in the eighty something minute.

Former Robins player Harry Pell, now Captain of Colchester, was very fortunate to stay on the park. Midway through the first half he pole axed a Cheltenham player with a two footed tackle that really warranted red.

Well now we need at most only one more point to secure automatic promotion and perhaps a couple more to win League 2 outright.

I am reliably informed that, although promoted to league one twice before, it has previously only been through the play offs.

So t'would be nice to get some silverware.

So Come on you Robins ]]> https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=10145 Wed, 27 Jan 2021 08:17:42 +0000 silverbaggie]]> https://www.sportsbabble.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=10145
Given the recent league records of these two teams, a home win seemed most unlikely.
Oldham's record is for some reason better away from home, 4 wins and 2 draws in their last 6 away matches.
The Robins haven't won at home since beating Exeter on the 5th December and haven't scored twice in any game since.

So the best we can possibly hope for is another draw or a narrow defeat.

Well, based on the first half performance; here we go again. Not helped I thought by:-
1) Only 3 days since that monumental struggle against City.
2) Playing Andy Williams upfront when he too last scored against Exeter.
3) Ongoing injury problems with at least three first team players unavailable.

No score at half time although young keeper Josh Griffiths, one of the heroes on Saturday almost letting another speculative long range shot creep under his body and into the net. The Oldham players were in no doubt that it had crossed the line before Josh hauled it back.
Perhaps thank goodness VAR wasn't present.

The second half was equally even until the 54th minute when Any Williams scored a cracker of a goal. Receiving the ball out on the left, he advanced to the corner of the penalty area before unleashing a shot across goal that hit the inside of far post and into the net.
Could the Robins hold onto a one goal lead?
Well Oldham had their chances but failed to take them/
Alfie May, one of Saturday's heroes added a second just 7 minutes from time and the frequent wobble in the final minutes was averted.
Man of the Match?
For me,  Finn Azaz who really bossed the midfield throughout and actually played all 90 minutes. ]]>
Given the recent league records of these two teams, a home win seemed most unlikely.
Oldham's record is for some reason better away from home, 4 wins and 2 draws in their last 6 away matches.
The Robins haven't won at home since beating Exeter on the 5th December and haven't scored twice in any game since.

So the best we can possibly hope for is another draw or a narrow defeat.

Well, based on the first half performance; here we go again. Not helped I thought by:-
1) Only 3 days since that monumental struggle against City.
2) Playing Andy Williams upfront when he too last scored against Exeter.
3) Ongoing injury problems with at least three first team players unavailable.

No score at half time although young keeper Josh Griffiths, one of the heroes on Saturday almost letting another speculative long range shot creep under his body and into the net. The Oldham players were in no doubt that it had crossed the line before Josh hauled it back.
Perhaps thank goodness VAR wasn't present.

The second half was equally even until the 54th minute when Any Williams scored a cracker of a goal. Receiving the ball out on the left, he advanced to the corner of the penalty area before unleashing a shot across goal that hit the inside of far post and into the net.
Could the Robins hold onto a one goal lead?
Well Oldham had their chances but failed to take them/
Alfie May, one of Saturday's heroes added a second just 7 minutes from time and the frequent wobble in the final minutes was averted.
Man of the Match?
For me,  Finn Azaz who really bossed the midfield throughout and actually played all 90 minutes. ]]>