As Newport County prepare to take on Cheltenham Town, we take a closer look at Saturday's opponents.
Cheltenham’s Story
Founded in 1887, Cheltenham Town began life in local leagues before progressing to the Birmingham Combination in 1932 and the Southern League in 1935. The club spent five decades competing in the Southern League, winning the Midland Division in 1982–83 and the Premier Division in 1984–85, which earned promotion to the Alliance Premier League. Although relegated in 1992, the Robins bounced back to the Conference in 1997.
Under Steve Cotterill, Cheltenham enjoyed a golden era, lifting the 1998 FA Trophy and securing promotion to the Football League for the first time by winning the Conference in 1998–99. Cotterill also guided the club to the FA Cup fifth round and the 2002 Third Division play-off final victory, taking Cheltenham into the second tier. After a single season at that level, they were relegated but earned promotion again in 2006 under John Ward.
Following three years in League One, Cheltenham dropped back down the divisions, eventually falling into the National League in 2015. Gary Johnson’s arrival sparked a swift revival, as his side won the 2015–16 National League title with a record 101 points to reclaim their Football League status. A few years later, Michael Duff led the Robins to new heights, securing the 2020–21 League Two title — the club’s first-ever Football League crown. After three seasons in League One, Cheltenham returned to League Two, looking to build once again on their proud history.
The Head Coach
Steve Cotterill – a name synonymous with Cheltenham Town’s rise through the leagues – has made a sensational return to the Robins’ dugout following the departure of Michael Flynn.
Cotterill’s return marks a homecoming for one of the club’s most successful and respected figures. During his first spell in charge, he famously guided Cheltenham from the Southern League to the Football League and then to the third tier, establishing the foundations for the club’s modern success.
Since leaving Whaddon Road over two decades ago, Cotterill has built an impressive managerial résumé, taking charge of clubs such as Burnley, Notts County, Portsmouth, Nottingham Forest, Bristol City, Birmingham City, and most recently Forest Green Rovers. His vast experience across the Football League and reputation for strong leadership make him a hugely significant appointment.
The Captain
Harry Pell was named Cheltenham Town’s captain at the start of last season but didn’t make his return to the side until last month having suffered a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament in a pre-season clash with Northampton Town.
Since his return to the Robins, Pell has made four appearances in all competitions having made 136 appearances during 2015-2018.
Since his injury the captaincy has been shared between former Exile, Scot Bennett and Luke Young last season, and centre back James Wilson this season.
Key Player
Attacking midfielder Isaac Hutchinson joined Cheltenham Town on loan from Bristol Rovers ahead of the 2025-26 season and has quickly made his mark, scoring four goals and providing one assist in his first seven appearances.
Hailing from Redcar, Hutchinson began his career in the youth ranks at Brighton & Hove Albion before making his senior breakthrough with Southend United in League One. His performances at Roots Hall quickly caught the eye, earning him a move to Derby County in 2020, where he continued his development within the Rams’ first-team setup and under-23s.
Hutchinson’s real emergence came at Walsall, where he became a key figure across two impressive seasons in League Two. Renowned for his vision, work rate, and ability to drive play forward from midfield, he consistently delivered goals and assists, establishing himself as one of the division’s most effective all-round midfielders.
Now at Cheltenham, Hutchinson’s arrival is seen as a major coup for the club. His blend of creativity, experience, and tenacity makes him an invaluable asset as the Robins look to push up the table and reassert themselves as a competitive force in League Two.
