Isaac Hutchinson will miss Cheltenham Town’s upcoming away fixture against his parent club, Bristol Rovers. Despite not playing, the midfielder remains central to the ongoing discussions about his future. Bristol Rovers manager Steve Evans has stated that a return to Cheltenham for the 26-year-old is “probably impossible” after the current season ends.
Hutchinson has been a standout player for the Robins, netting 20 goals this season. His prolific scoring came largely during two loan spells at Cheltenham, separated by a brief return to Bristol Rovers in January. With one year remaining on his contract at Rovers, Hutchinson is expected to transfer this summer amid interest from League One clubs.
Evans confirmed that talks with Hutchinson will take place on Monday to discuss his next steps. Hutchinson is anticipated to make his final appearance for Cheltenham against Colchester United on May 2 before heading off on a well-deserved holiday.
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“I’m talking to Isaac on Monday. He’ll be in a week earlier because he’s got some holidays planned,” Evans told Bristol Live. “He’s scored over 20 goals; I think he’s earned a nice break. We’ve always valued him, and there’s mutual respect between us. We’ll sit down and consider what’s best for Bristol Rovers.”
Asked about the possibility of Hutchinson returning to Cheltenham, Evans was blunt, “Highly unlikely and probably impossible. There’s a good chance we’ll keep him here, but first we have to have that conversation.”
Having already secured a place in the EFL League Two Team of the Season, Hutchinson is also the favourite to be named Cheltenham’s Supporters' Player of the Year. This would make him the second consecutive loanee to receive the Bryan Jacob Cup, following the central defender Sam Stubbs last season.