Football Season Review

There is plenty of optimism at Whaddon Road as Cheltenham Town finished the season in good health under manager Michael Duff. Duff returned to the Robins in September having previously enjoyed a successful spell as a player. He replaced Gary Johnson, who was sacked after a poor start to the season. Despite having guided the club back to the Football League, there was little goodwill left from supporters who felt the club was treading water. There was also frustration at a perceived waste of money received for striker Mo Eisa; whose transfer fee Johnson spent on several players, where quantity appeared greater than quality. Duff inherited a bloated squad and it took him time to get his ideas across. It was a slow but steady improvement which saw the side avoid a relegation battle to finish in 16th place. He got the best out of wing-back Ryan Broom, whilst making the most of the set-piece delivery of Chris Hussey on the opposite flank. Kevin Dawson provided a creative spark in the middle of the park with experienced striker Luke Varney the main beneficiary; bagging 14 goals to finish as leading scorer. Scott Flinders was an ever-present between the sticks and is one of a number of players who have already signed for next season as Duff looks to challenge at the top end of the table.

Player of the Season: Luke Varney