Striker Andy Cooke today waved farewell to Shrewsbury Town as boss Paul Simpson took the first step in paving the way for a summer of change.The 34-year-old left the club this afternoon after being told he did not figure in the new manager’s plans for next season.
He made 54 appearances for Shrewsbury after signing in July 2006, scoring 17 goals.
The Market Drayton-based ace will most fondly be remembered by supporters for the two goals that sunk the MK Dons in the second leg of last season’s League Two play-off semi-final.
But he has had a frustrating time in 2007/8, never fully recovering from a hamstring injury sustained in the Carling Cup win over Colchester back in August.
“I told him we would not be renewing his contract and by leaving now he can let his body shut down for a month and get himself fit for next season,” said Simpson.
“He was disappointed not to be getting a contract but I think he expected it, to be honest. I’ve made it clear to everyone that I need to change the squad and make it better for next year.
“I feel we need to improve the squad and these decisions have to be made. I’m sure he’ll go on and do a job for someone else next season.”
11 Comments
Gutting total gutting
Regrettably no one lasts for ever. Thanks Andy for your brave playing style and even more thanks for getting us to Wembley last year.
thanks for the memories andy
Thanks for some great memories Cookie, especially MK of course and hat-tricks against Stockport!!! A shame that PS couldn’t find a backroom post for you. Good luck wherever you go mate.
a good servant of the club, thanks cookie
I like Andy, could have been a great scorer for us had the service been better, unfortunately he has not been available much due to injuries, that situation would probably have not got any better, a hard one to call but the manager is correct. Andy will be remembered as a hard working 100% genuine guy who is a credit to himself and I am sure we all wish him well.
All the best to you Cookie.
You were my favorite player.
Top lad and thanks for all the memories hope you find a decent club.
Strange one this. On one hand Mr Simpson says we need experience. Then offers no future to Cookie, who is Shrewsbury Town through and through and has a wealth of experience. Still, I’m biased a bit having played in the same junior team as Cookie for a few years. even this year, Cookie’s first touch and control was impeccable as ever, and always looks to bring in players around him. Put quite simply, STFC played their best with a fit Cookie up front. Goes to show that there is no room for sentiment.
I’m sure Stockport would have him!
Yes Andy you said it, a fit Cookie and we looked a better team. He’s got the experience, but not the fitness and he’s 2 years older than when we signed him. Stockport wont forget him in a hurry.
Best of luck Andy wherever you go but please don’t come back and haunt us !!! Know what i mean !!