Cheltenham Town Bolster Squad with Key Signings Ahead of 2026/27 Season

June 27, 2026 — Cheltenham Town Football Club has made a positive start to their summer preparations, announcing two significant midfield additions as they look to improve on last season’s 18th-place finish in League Two.

The Robins confirmed the signing of experienced midfielder Jordan Shipley from Port Vale on a permanent deal earlier this week. Shipley, who impressed during his time at Port Vale with 33 appearances and two goals last season, brings valuable EFL experience and versatility to Steve Cotterill’s squad. The 28-year-old, previously with Coventry City where he contributed to two promotions, is expected to add creativity and leadership in the centre of the park.

“Shippers is a player I know well and someone who will fit perfectly into our style,” Cotterill commented. “He’s technically strong, works hard, and has the experience we need as we build for the new campaign.” Shipley becomes the second summer signing following the arrival of Charlie McCann from Barrow.

McCann, 24, joined earlier in June after a productive spell at Barrow, where he scored five goals in 38 appearances. The former Rangers and Manchester United academy product has previously worked under Cotterill and is seen as an exciting addition who can contribute both defensively and going forward. Pre-season training begins on July 1, with the squad heading to Spain for a week-long training camp starting July 4.

Off the pitch, the club has secured continuity with Principal Partners Mira Showers agreeing a new deal to remain as front-of-shirt sponsors for the 2026/27 season. This stability provides a strong foundation as Cheltenham prepare for what promises to be a competitive League Two campaign.

Last season saw the Robins navigate a difficult campaign, ultimately finishing 18th and ensuring safety from relegation. Key players like George Miller signed new contracts after the season, with Miller having contributed seven goals despite injury setbacks. However, the club bid farewell to several players including Luke Young, Jordan Thomas, and Arkell Jude-Boyd as part of the retained list announced in May.

Fixture release day on June 25 generated excitement among supporters, with fans already speculating about tough early fixtures and potential derbies. The club will also participate in the EFL Trophy group stage alongside Oxford United and Exeter City, plus a Premier League under-21 side.

Manager Steve Cotterill has been vocal about his ambitions for the new season. Speaking recently, he highlighted the importance of building squad depth and fitness during pre-season. “We’ve got a good group coming back, and these new signings will strengthen us,” he said. “The aim is to be more competitive and push higher up the table.”

Cheltenham’s home ground, Whaddon Road (Completely-Suzuki Stadium), is expected to be a vital asset once again, with loyal fans known for creating a strong atmosphere. The club’s pre-season friendlies kick off with a trip to Slimbridge on July 14, followed by a home fixture against MK Dons on August 1.

As the transfer window remains open, further additions are anticipated, particularly in forward areas, to complement the new midfielders. With the squad set to return refreshed from Spain, optimism is building in Gloucestershire that the 2026/27 season could mark a step forward for the Robins.

Supporters are eagerly awaiting the full fixture list details and any further transfer announcements in the coming weeks. Cheltenham Town’s journey continues, with a clear focus on improvement, stability, and delivering exciting football at Whaddon Road.

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Home of Cheltenham Town FC

Opened 1927

Capacity 7,066

History (from Wikipedia)

The stadium, on the site of what was the Berkeley Hunt kennels, was built by the Cheltenham Original Brewery in 1927 and has been the home of Cheltenham Town since 1932, although it did not host senior football for 67 years. Cheltenham marked their 70th anniversary at the stadium by winning promotion to the Football League Second Division, the third tier of English football, for the first time.
The record attendance is 8,326, at a game versus Reading, FA Cup 1st Round, 17 November 1956. Whaddon Road was the smallest League One stadium in the 2007-08 and 2008-09 season.

Stands[edit]

The ground is made up of 4 stands:

  • Hazlewoods Stand (Whaddon Road) - capacity 1,100. An all-seated stand behind one of the goals, initially named the Carlsberg Stand, it was opened in 2005 and is designated for away fans. For the 2009-10 season it was given to home supporters, but after one season it was returned to away fans.
  • Colin Farmer Stand (Wymans Road) - capacity 2,034. An all-seated stand that runs down one side of the pitch. The stand was opened in November 2001 and is home to the vocal "1887 Red Army" supporters, who are situated in block 7, as well as the Family Section in Block 1. For big games, two sections of the stand are given to away supporters. It was renamed the Colin Farmer Stand at the beginning of the 2016-17 season, in memory of Colin Farmer, a club legend.
  • Speedy Skips Stand (Prestbury Road End) - capacity about 2,100. Given a roof in 2000-01, this is now a covered terrace and is the home standing end.
  • Autovillage Stand (Main Stand) - capacity about 1,800. Built in 1963, it is a mixture of terracing (Tunnel and Paddock enclosures) at the front and seating at the back. The Main Stand runs down one side of the pitch, but is unusual in that it does not stretch the full length of the touchline and does not reach either corner flag. It contains the players dressing rooms, and hospitality, directors' and press boxes.

Things to do in Cheltenham.