West Country born and bred, Cotterill met his staff and players at Stanley Park this morning.

Having managed the likes of Burnley, Nottingham Forest and Bristol City, Cotterill has won five promotions during his managerial career and is also no stranger to pulling teams away from relegation danger. 

His last role was at Shrewsbury Town between 2020 and 2023, achieving an impressive 12th-placed finish in League One last season, the club’s second-highest finish in 34 years 

Club Chairman, Dale Vince, said: “I’m delighted to welcome Steve to FGR. His record speaks for itself with over 25 years of experience in all leagues of the EFL, spanning nearly 900 games.  

“Steve knows what it takes at this level and shares our determination to avoid relegation this season, then build our way back up to League One and looking upward again.  I’m sure our fans will welcome this appointment and Steve to our club.”