Cheltenham Town manager Darrell Clarke has expressed his confidence in forward Will Goodwin’s potential to thrive at a higher level in football.
The 21-year-old has caught Clarke’s eye in the past two months, particularly with standout performances such as his brace at Blackpool and his imposing physical presence that causes difficulties for opposing defenders.
“Goody has been a delight to work with since I arrived,” Clarke remarked. “He possesses a range of qualities that are very promising, and our aim is to propel his progress. With more playing time, he’s only going to elevate his game.”
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Clarke emphasized Goodwin’s physical attributes, indicating that they are suited for a higher level of play, but consistency in performance is crucial for his advancement. He urged Goodwin to aspire to stand out as a number 9 and highlighted the scarcity of such players, underlining the potential for a bright future if consistent performance is achieved.
Having joined Cheltenham from Stoke City in January, Goodwin’s promising start was evident when he scored on his debut in an EFL Trophy victory against Salford City. Clarke explained that Goodwin’s time at Stoke City primarily saw him confined to under-21 football, hindering his first team opportunities but expressed confidence in his ability to bounce back through consistent on-field displays.
Cheltenham will resume action with a home fixture against Oxford United on Saturday afternoon at 3 pm, following a two-week hiatus since their last League One encounter. Their previous fixture involved a training ground friendly against a strong Wolves XI, with Tom Bradbury finding the net in a 3-1 defeat.
“We’ve had a positive couple of weeks,” Clarke said. “Match fitness is vital, and we’ve explored different tactical aspects for the upcoming matches.”
Clarke also attended the Under-18s' 3-0 victory over Dorking Wanderers, praising the team’s progression to the FA Youth Cup’s third round and commending the academy’s dedication.
The article also discusses Oxford’s recent coaching appointment and emphasizes the upcoming challenging clash with the high-flying opposition.