Shropshire Star

Luke Shelley urges fans to back AFC Telford

New football operations manager Luke Shelley insists all at AFC Telford United will do everything in their power to make next season a success.

Published

It has been another summer of change for the Bucks, with Gavin Cowan replacing Rob Edwards as boss.

Phil Trainer, Martin Prentice and Darren Acton have all joined the coaching team too, while Shelley – who also oversees the youth ranks – officially starts in his new role on July 1 as football secretary Joe Murphy leaves the club.

Hoping supporters really get behind the fresh regime for what is the club’s fourth straight season in National League North, Shelley said: “It’s really important to the club. Gavin has been here as a player and has been a successful player, and (assistant boss) Phil exactly the same – fans see him as a bit of a hero, a legend.

“There’s two people there who know the club.

“I’m not saying Rob didn’t, nor any other of the previous people, but (Gavin and Phil) have got their heart and soul in this club and that’s vitally important.

“It’s the same with (first-team coach) Martin. He’s come in from Stafford Rangers where he has been successful, and Darren – coming in as goalkeeper coach – has been at the club before and knows the non-league set-up.

“Between the staff we’ve got, we’ve got a good nucleus, a base, to hopefully create something successful next season.”