Manager’s Assessment
Jordan Shipley, 29, former Coventry City winger, has been signed by Cheltenham Town manager Steve Cotterill for a second time this summer after their time together at Shrewsbury Town. Cotterill says the player has been substituted around the 70th minute in both of the club's League Two matches so far and is currently lacking confidence. "Shippers has had two quiet games now, but I know he can do more," Cotterill told reporters. "What’s happened a little bit with him is that he’s probably not been consistent for maybe a good year or 18 months. I have to try and reach down deep in him to try and drag that back out because I know there is so much more that he can do for us." Cotterill added that Shipley “looks like he might be short of confidence at the moment, but let’s see how that goes. I am sure he’ll be fine for us.” He explained that when a player loses confidence, “you start having one touch rather than getting hold of the ball a bit more.”
Shipley’s Background
Shipley helped Coventry City climb from League Two to the Championship with two promotions in three seasons and then played regularly in the second tier for the Sky Blues. The former Republic of Ireland Under‑21 international shone under Cotterill’s guidance at Shrewsbury, including a fine run of form at left wing‑back following an ACL injury to George Nurse, who is also now at Cheltenham. Cotterill recalled advice from former England coach Don Howe: "When you are having a bad game, get hold of the ball and give it to the same coloured shirt. By the time you have done that three times you are back having a good game again."
Upcoming Match
Cheltenham travel to Barnet on Saturday for a 12:30pm kick‑off at The Hive. Shipley will look to regain his confidence and contribute to the team’s efforts against the Bees.
