Robins' revised squad numbers announced
Cheltenham Town have rearranged their squad numbers following the recent influx of new players.
Big striker Julian Alsop has been handed the number 39 shirt in recognition of the number of goals needed to become the Robins' highest Football League goalscorer.
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He is aiming to surpass Martin Devaney's record of 38 and currently has 35 to his name.
David Bird takes the number two shirt, suggesting that boss Martin Allen may be considering him for a regular right-back role after the arrival of central midfield player Michael Pook, who will wear number seven.
Former club captain John Finnigan has not been given a squad number as he negotiates a move away from the Abbey Business Stadium after seven years' service.
Former Chelsea youngster Jordan Tabor has signed non-contract terms with the club and is given squad number 15, while loan signing Tom Denton takes the 19 shirt, Oliver Bozanic 16 and Barry Hayles 38.
Goalkeeping coach Barry Richardson is named as number 40.
Richardson, who turns 40 on August 5, will act as cover for first choice goalkeeper Scott Brown, with Will Puddy set to join Bath City on a three-month loan.
NUMBERS: 1) Scott Brown; 2) David Bird; 3) Lee Ridley; 4) Shane Duff; 5) Michael Townsend; 6) Drissa Diallo; 7) Michael Pook; 8) Andy Gallinagh; 9) Justin Richards; 10) David Hutton; 11) Elvis Hammond; 12) Kyle Haynes; 14) Marley Watkins; 15) Jordan Tabor; 16) Oliver Bozanic; 17) Josh Low; 18) Jack Durrant; 19) Tom Denton; 21) Will Puddy; 22) Theo Lewis; 38) Barry Hayles; 39) Julian Alsop; 40) Barry Richardson.
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by Pete Bell, Forest of dean
Saturday, July 25 2009, 3:38PM
“David Bird has had 'Player of the year' for the last two years because of his midfield position and excellent ball passing! Putting him at right back is a kick in the teech and a JOKE!!”
by Richard lll, Cheltenham
Saturday, July 25 2009, 1:55PM
“Matt - Loaning Puddy out is the RIGHT thing to do - how else is he gonna get the experience he needs for League 2? Richardson may be 40, but that's not that old for a goalie. He's been a pro for ages, so if we do require him at all during the season (which is unlikely anyway), I'm sure he'll be up to the job.”
by matt, chelt
Friday, July 24 2009, 9:36PM
“Bit concerned that wer loaning out will puddy, back gk is now a 40 year old guy who hasnt played a pro game sine 2001, id rather keep puddy at whaddon road, fresh and injury free so that when we need him hes availabe!! What if he gets an injury at bath city, wer doomed!!!!”
by Craig, Cheltenham
Friday, July 24 2009, 12:46PM
“6 is usually a centre backs number I thought, with 4 being generally a centre back/defensive midfielder number. I would have though 4 would have sutied Birdy better but Duffo has had it for a few seasons now.
Maybe Bird was given 2 because 22 is two little ducks, maybe 2 is one little Birdy?”
by diesledog, paddock
Friday, July 24 2009, 10:56AM
“I think some are getting a bit carried away over the numbers situation. Yes it is a bit strange Birdy's number two, but also Drissa Diallo at number 6!!?(a mid-field position wouldn't you say?), but you're not going to see him play anything other than defence. The most important thing is that we have positions covered and DB can play at right back(or would you rather see Andy Gallinagh there?). I cant see any reason(if they are all fit), the back 4 would not be: Diallo, Townsend, Duff, Ridley.
At the start we were going to have a thread bare squad, with NO strikers, now it's looking pretty good and even though Bird and Pook quiet similar, I'm glad he has come on board.
Already getting withdrawal symptoms waiting for the next game.”
by Really Cameron?, Cheltenham
Friday, July 24 2009, 10:27AM
“Look im really sorry Cameron, but its about time somebody told you. Brace yourself now, Josh Low is not a very good player - He was never and will never be a right back , or indeed a very good player - He is average at best - for the love of god even Forest Green didn't want him! Please Please Please stop banging on about him - Dave Bird is far better in every department.
Interesting to see Gallers donning the number 8 - definate change of role predicted!”
by cameron, taunton
Friday, July 24 2009, 10:05AM
“when tom denton is unleashed on herefords defence i think sorrow will be a well known feeling at edgar street”
by Vincent, Hereford
Friday, July 24 2009, 10:02AM
“That is one sorry looking squad.”
by Mitchell & Webb, Over The Moon
Friday, July 24 2009, 8:35AM
“"That's numberwang"...”
by cameron, taunton
Friday, July 24 2009, 7:45AM
“david bird should not be considered for right back martin allen has already seen that josh low can do a job there david bird is our best midfielder but will be found out by his lack of pace at right back”