Steve Cotterill says he has “great memories” of his time at Shrewsbury Town as he prepares to return with Cheltenham Town this weekend.
The Cheltenham boss will face his former club on Saturday at 3pm for the first time since leaving Shrewsbury in 2023, and admitted the trip brings back plenty of memories.
“It was a very good time for me,” Cotterill said. “I suppose the start was really good in terms of winning Manager of the Month in the first month.”
However, the experienced manager also recalled the challenges he faced during his spell there, particularly his serious battle with COVID-19.
“Then I had COVID, which was something I’ll never, ever forget.
“I’ll never forget the treatment and the care from the NHS and the people around me. They were brilliant to me during that period.”
Cotterill returned to the dugout later that season after a lengthy recovery.
“When I came back for the first game, I wasn’t really ready. I was still on steroids and things like that,” he admitted.
“But I probably rushed myself back because I wanted to be there for the team.”
Despite the difficulties, Cotterill says his memories of Shrewsbury remain positive.
“I’ve got great memories of the supporters while I was there.
“Even after leaving there were a lot of really nice messages.
“There are still a couple of people working there who I’m very good friends with, so it will be nice to see them again.”
Cotterill also acknowledged the work done since his departure, with Shrewsbury enjoying a strong run of form recently.
“They’ve had a good change in fortune,” he said. “Six wins in seven is a great run and the manager seems to be doing a really good job.”
The Cheltenham boss also expressed sympathy for former Shrewsbury manager Michael Appelton, who left the club earlier this season.
Club statement: Michael Appleton.
— Shrewsbury Town FC (@shrewsburytown) January 28, 2026
“I was disappointed for Michael when he went because I think he’s a good man.
“When you’ve been in football a long time you have sympathy for people in that situation.”
Looking ahead to the match, Cotterill expects a tough test from a side he believes has developed a strong defensive structure.
“They defend their box really, really well, we’ll have to be very mindful of their set-plays, turnovers and counter-attacks.
“We’ll need to be very switched on to those moments and make sure we’re good with the ball as well.”
Cheltenham head into the game looking to continue their progress under Cotterill, who insists his focus remains firmly on improving his own side.
“We’ll work again tomorrow on a few things leading up to the game, but yes, I’m certainly looking forward to it.”
