Brackley Town accept Gavin Cowan resignation after landmark spell

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Brackley Town have accepted the resignation of manager Gavin Cowan, ending a hugely significant three-season tenure at St James Park.

Cowan departs with the club 15th in the National League, with the Saints unbeaten in their last five matches, to join League Two outfit Shrewsbury Town.

The decision takes immediate effect and also sees assistant manager Jamie Haynes leave the club for the Football League.

Chairman Matt Wise said: “We thank Gavin for his commitment and work at the club and wish him well in his next endeavour.

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Togetherness

“The priority at the club now is to recruit a new manager.

“A unity and a togetherness have always been strengths at our club. I urge all supporters to come together and to get behind the team in these coming weeks.”

Cowan began his managerial career at AFC Telford United in 2018, enjoying a successful stint with the Bucks before leaving after three years.

The 44-year-old went on to take charge of Brackley in May 2023 after the club had narrowly missed out on promotion from the National League North, losing in the play-off final.

In his first season, he guided the Saints to a third-place finish and another play-off final, but they again fell short.

Cowan then delivered promotion in the following campaign, winning the title and taking Brackley into the fifth tier of Non-League football for the first time in the club’s history.

Brackley have taken to life in the National League well in their first season at this level.

The Saints made it to the second round of the FA Cup after defeating Notts County and enjoyed victories over promotion-chasing Rochdale and Forest Green Rovers this season in the league.

Whirlwind few days

However, with Brackley settled in a good position to avoid the drop, Cowan departs to take charge of Shrewsbury after Michael Appleton’s recent departure.

Salop are currently fighting for survival in the fourth tier of English football, just two points above the relegation zone.

The Shrews side have agreed a compensation package with Brackley to bring the former Shrewsbury defender into the club.

“It’s an honour and a privilege to be Shrewsbury Town’s head coach,” Cowan said.

“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.”

Dean takes interim charge

His last game in charge of Brackley was Tuesday’s 5-2 National League Cup defeat to Boreham Wood.

In the dugout on an interim basis will be stalwart defender and club captain Gareth Dean.

Dean will be assisted by Alastair Worby and will lead the team for this Saturday’s fixture away at Sutton United.

The club added that “further updates regarding the management position will be communicated in due course”.

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