Shrewsbury Town appoint Gavin Cowan after Michael Appleton’s exit

Shrewsbury Town have appointed Gavin Cowan as their new head coach following his resignation from Non-League side Brackley Town.

Cowan returns to the League Two outfit as head coach after turning out for the club between 2005 and 2007.

The 44-year-old arrives at New Meadow after a landmark spell at Brackley, where he guided the Saints into the National League for the first time in their history.

Assistant manager Jamie Haynes has also joined Cowan at the Shrews, with the club agreeing a compensation package with Brackley to secure the former Salop defender’s services.

For exclusive stories and all the detailed EFL news you need, subscribe to The Football League Paper website, digital edition, or newspaper from as little as 14p a day.

WATCH THE FOOTBALL LEAGUE PAPER PODCAST HERE

Honour

Cowan takes charge following the recent departure of Michael Appleton and his assistant Richard O’Donnell by mutual consent.

Shrewsbury are currently battling for survival in the fourth tier, sitting just two points above the relegation zone after their latest defeat away to Cambridge United on Tuesday night.

Speaking after his appointment, Cowan said: “It’s an honour and a privilege to be Shrewsbury Town’s head coach.

“The last few days have been a whirlwind, but I’m incredibly excited about the challenge ahead and the opportunity to represent this special football club once again.

“The last few days have been a whirlwind, but I’m incredibly excited about the challenge ahead and the opportunity to represent this special football club once again.

“Whenever I’ve been successful in the past, it’s been by uniting the fans, the hierarchy and the players.

“That is what I’m determined to do here. We all need to be together. But I promise, we will build a football club to really make you proud.”

Immense desire

Cowan began his managerial career with AFC Telford United in 2018 before moving to Brackley in May 2023, where he oversaw the most successful period in the club’s history.

After falling short with defeat in the National League North play-off final, he delivered the title the following season to secure promotion.

Brackley adapted well to life in the National League under Cowan, reaching the second round of the FA Cup and recording notable victories over Rochdale and Forest Green Rovers this season.

Club favourite Dave Edwards will also join Cowan’s coaching staff at Shrewsbury as joint-assistant manager alongside Haynes.

Cowan added: “Working alongside Dave Edwards and Jamie Haynes gives me huge confidence – Jamie has been with me for 17 years and is outstanding in everything he does, while Dave’s knowledge, passion and love for the club speak for themselves.

“The three of us have an immense desire to see this football club do well, both on the pitch and in the community. We are determined to deliver success.”

READ MORE: League One & League Two round up: Big wins for Cardiff City and Lincoln City