Former Brackley boss Cowan ‘honoured’ to take on top job at Shrewsbury Town
Gavin Cowan says it's 'an honour and privilege' to be named manager of Shrewsbury Town after his decision to quit Brackley Town and take the hot seat with the Sky Bet League Two strugglers.
The 44-year-old has left St James Park after close to three years in charge, admitting it has been a 'whirlwind' week as he was unveiled as the new Shrews boss on Thursday morning - just hours after the club had sacked Michael Appleton.
There was no hint that Cowan would be leaving Brackley as he spoke following the Saints' 5-2 National Cup defeat at Boreham Wood on Tuesday night, but less than 48 hours later he is now a full-time Football League manager.
An ex-Shrewsbury player, Cowan has jumped at the chance to join his former club and take on the challenge of pulling them away from the threat of dropping out of the Football League.
A league one team last season, the Shrews have struggled again this term, and Cowan takes over a side sitting fourth bottom in the fourth tier, just two points above the relegation zone.
Cowan's assistant at Brackley, Jamie Jaynes, has made the move to Shropshire with him, with another ex Salop player, Dave Edwards, also named as part of the new management team.
“It’s an honour and a privilege to be Shrewsbury Town’s head coach," Cowan told shrewsburytown.com.
“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.
“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."
Cowan's first game in charge of his new club will be Saturday's home date with mid-table Barnet.
He makes the move to Shrewsbury having led Brackley to the National League North title last season, a year after guiding the club to the play-offs.
Cowan leaves with the Saints sitting 15th in the Enterprise National League, six points above the relegation zone.
Brackley are currently on a five-match unbeaten run in the league, and on Saturday travel to Sutton United.