Cheltenham Town manager Steve Cotterill is intent on adding four or five more players to his squad as the club prepares for the upcoming season.
Following a convincing 3-0 friendly victory over Evesham United, Cotterill expressed satisfaction with the six signings made so far this summer. The match saw new recruit Charlie McCann shine with two goals on his debut, while Sopuruchukwu Obieri also found the net to secure the win for the Robins.
Goalkeeper Wyll Stanway became the latest addition, transferring from Barrow for a modest five-figure fee described by Cotterill as “nominal.” Shaun McWilliams, a midfielder with experience at Rotherham United and Northampton Town, joined just the day before. They complement earlier signings Charlie McCann, Jordan Shipley, Pierce Sweeney, and Joe Tomlinson, all of whom have joined the squad at Whaddon Road.
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Cotterill praised the progress the club has made compared to the previous year, emphasizing that the team is now better equipped for the challenges ahead. “I think we’ve done really well with the six so far,” he said. “Compared to where we were when I came in — and that’s not disrespect to the lads who did really well for me last season — we are better prepared for the season ahead than we were 12 months ago.”
The manager also highlighted the benefits of the team’s recent training trip to Spain, which helped strengthen team cohesion. “Going away to Spain was good in helping the group become more tight-knit. It was incredibly hard work, but we had some fun times,” Cotterill added.
Looking forward, Cotterill plans to finalize two loan signings soon, with targeted additions including a striker, two wingers, another midfielder, and an additional defensive player. He acknowledged the club’s budget has increased but remains modest, requiring careful allocation. “I know exactly where my budget is, as I have at every club I’ve been at, and I am happy with where we are now.”
The squad faces some setbacks as defender James Wilson, the team captain last season, missed the Evesham friendly due to a calf injury. Cheltenham’s next pre-season match is scheduled against Slimbridge away next Saturday, with a 2pm kick-off.