Matt Rains and Ali Gibb move onto pastures new
The late stages of 2016 have seen a lot of change at Shrewsbury Town’s academy, and that will continue into the New Year as two key members of staff leave the club.Professional Development Phase Coach Matt Rains and Head of Sport Science and Medicine Ali Gibb are both moving on to pastures new, which follows the departure of Head of Youth Coaching Ian Dawes last month.
Rains is leaving to join Leicester City, whilst Gibb will join Bolton Wanderers.
Academy Manager Andy Jones is now looking to fill these roles to ensure that the positive start he has made at the club can continue, even if he has to work through the festive period.
“We will potentially have four or five new staff members coming in over the next month, which has ruined my Christmas to be honest!
“It’s one of those things that we’ve got to get right, we’ve had hundreds of applications already and we will make sure that they fit the mould of what we’re trying to do with the club.”
Whilst the changes give the chance for a fresh start, Jones admits that he is disappointed by the loss of Rains and Gibb.
“Matt’s got a move to a really top club and we wish him all the best.
“I personally feel disappointed that he’s going but at the same time it’s a great achievement and a very good move for him. He’s been here five or six years and he’s been a great ambassador for the club.”
On Gibb, Jones said: “He’s fantastic with the players and he’s so respected and he will be a real big loss.
“From a personal note, they’ve been fantastic for me since I’ve been here and it will be difficult to get the right people in to replace them.”
Both staff members are moving on to bigger clubs and Jones believes that the opportunities presented to the Town’s staff shows the positive steps that the academy has been taking recently.
“I think it shows what we’re doing as a club. It’s not just the players that are attracting attention but also the staff.
“We have that reputation of producing good players and that comes from the staff.”
Shrewsbury Town would like to thank both men for their hard work and dedication during their time at the club and wish them well for the future.