Chesterfield have announced that head coach Paul Cook, along with his backroom staff, has signed new long-term contracts.
Cook, who rejoined the Spireites in 2022 for a second spell, has led the club through some turbulent times. Under his guidance, Chesterfield endured the disappointment of a failed promotion bid in the 2022/23 National League playoffs, but the club’s fortunes have dramatically improved since.
Chesterfield Belief in Paul Cook
Currently sitting in eighth place in League Two, just one point away from a playoff spot, Chesterfield’s progress this season has been impressive. The club’s standout performance last season, where they won the National League title 12 points ahead of second-place Barnet, secured their return to League Two after a six-year absence. Cook’s leadership was key to this success, and now, the Spireites are aiming even higher.
Chesterfield’s attacking prowess has been one of the highlights of their current campaign. They are the second-highest scoring team in League Two, trailing only Walsall, and they also boast one of the division’s best defensive records, sitting joint sixth in this category. With just six points separating them from first place, fans are beginning to dream of back-to-back promotions, with automatic promotion now a realistic target.
Cook shared his thoughts on the new deal, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to continue building on recent success.
“We are all delighted to have signed contract extensions. Growth at a football club is never as easy as some people think, but we will hopefully keep progressing and taking the club forward. I’d like to thank Phil Kirk, Ashley Kirk, Mike Goodwin, John Croot, and Andy Fantom, as well as the support staff, who help make our club what it is.”
With Cook’s new deal in place, the Spireites are not just aiming for survival in League Two but are now setting their sights on promotion to League One and beyond. After years of rebuilding, Chesterfield fans are hoping this is just the beginning of a new chapter of success for the club.
Writer’s View
Paul Cook’s steady leadership has brought Chesterfield back from the brink, and this new contract could be the foundation for a sustained period of growth. With a high-flying attack and a solid defence, the Spireites are well-positioned to challenge for promotion, and with the club’s backing, Cook could very well lead them to League One once again.
