Steve Cotterill has emerged as a leading contender to take charge at Cheltenham Town after the club’s humiliating 7-1 defeat at Grimsby Town.
The Robins are bottom of League Two and searching for a new manager, with talks understood to be underway with their former boss.
Cotterill Back In The Frame
Speculation over Cotterill’s return grew immediately after Saturday’s collapse at Blundell Park. Cheltenham led through Isaac Hutchinson but were undone by two stunning strikes from Jamie Walker before Harry Pell and Lee Angol were dismissed. Down to nine men, the Robins were overrun as Jaze Kabia, Jayden Sweeney, Charles Vernam and Evan Khouri added further goals for Grimsby.
Caretaker boss Aaron Downes defended his squad, insisting they had executed their game plan early on but could not cope once reduced in numbers. His comments did little to quell concerns among supporters, who have watched the side endure a nightmare start to the season.
Fan Pressure Builds
Reporter Jon Palmer confirmed soon after the final whistle that Cotterill, the most successful manager in Cheltenham’s history, has held discussions with the club. The 60-year-old, who guided the Robins from non-league to the Football League, remains highly regarded despite his later spell at Forest Green Rovers.
Understand legendary boss Steve Cotterill is set to return to Cheltenham Town and could be confirmed within next 48 hours #ctfc
— Jon Palmer (@JonPalmerSport) September 28, 2025
Fans have been vocal in their backing. One supporter said Cotterill would “get the team running through brick walls,” while another described him as “the only man who can drag us out of the mire.” Some scepticism remains, with a section of the fanbase viewing the move as a desperate attempt by the board to regain credibility, but the majority appear convinced he is the right choice.
Odds Shorten On Return
Bookmakers have slashed the odds on Cheltenham’s next manager being Cotterill as momentum builds behind the idea. Cheltenham’s hierarchy are under increasing pressure to act quickly, with relegation fears already mounting after a string of poor results. The size of the Grimsby defeat has intensified calls for immediate change, and Cotterill’s name now dominates the discussion around Whaddon Road.
Writer’s View
Cheltenham’s board find themselves in a critical position, with the club languishing at the foot of League Two. Cotterill represents a safe pair of hands, familiar with the club’s DNA and proven at galvanising teams in crisis. However, this is not the same Cheltenham he left behind, and the challenge is substantial.
If appointed, he will need more than nostalgia to keep the Robins in the EFL, but his experience makes him the standout option as odds continue to shorten on a dramatic return. However, he has most recently been with their rivals, Forest Green Rovers, something some supporters may find difficult to accept.
