Shrewsbury Town manager Gavin Cowan is backing his team to recover from a tough spell. Speaking to reporters this week, Cowan insisted the squad has the quality to improve its results.
Shrewsbury finished 19th in England League Two last season, collecting 49 points from 46 games. Their record of 13 wins, 10 draws and 23 losses left them 38 points behind champions Bromley. The team scored 42 goals but conceded 69, resulting in a -27 goal difference. Their final five matches yielded a form of LDDWL.
Gavin Cowan addressed the recent challenges head-on. "We've had a tough start, but I'm confident we'll turn it around," the Shrewsbury boss told reporters. He pointed to the collective spirit within the dressing room as a foundation for progress. Cowan believes the current group of players is committed to putting in the work required to climb the standings. The manager's comments come as the club prepares for a new campaign, aiming to move on from last term's struggles.
The 2025 campaign was a difficult one for Shrewsbury Town. Finishing in 19th place meant they were closer to the relegation zone than the promotion race. A leaky defence was a particular issue, with 69 goals conceded ranking among the highest in the division. Offensively, the team managed just 42 goals. The 38-point gap to the summit illustrates the scale of the task facing Cowan and his staff if they are to challenge at the top end of the table. Fans can review the full breakdown of the season on our detailed stats page.
The immediate focus is on preparation and building a more resilient squad. Cowan's public vote of confidence is designed to build belief within the group. The club will be analysing its fixtures for the upcoming season to identify key periods. Internal improvement from existing players will be as important as any new additions. The manager's task is to instil a system that makes the team harder to beat while creating more scoring opportunities. Shrewsbury Town's pre-season planning is now underway, with the aim of ensuring a more positive start when competitive action resumes.
While Cowan did not single out individuals, the entire squad must take responsibility. The manager will rely on experienced figures within the group to lead by example on the training ground. A look at the current squad list shows a mix of youth and experience that Cowan must mould into a cohesive unit. Defensive solidity will be a primary concern after last season's record. The club's recruitment team is also expected to be active in identifying targets who can address specific weaknesses. Gavin Cowan's contract runs until the summer of 2027, giving him time to implement his long-term vision for Shrewsbury Town Football Club.
