Cheltenham Town manager Michael Duff has said the game coming up against Shrewsbury is “just three points,” despite the game being the first time he has locked horns with his former manager Steve Cotterill.
“I’ve said it before, I respect Steve a lot and I have a lot to thank him for in terms of my own career and a lot to thank him for in terms of my first three years in this job. The game on Saturday is three points, it’s just us against Shrewsbury, nothing else,” he revealed.
The game has received a lot of media attention in the build-up as Duff prepares to face off with Cottrill for the first time in his managerial career.
Duff played under Cotterill for Cheltenham town between 1997 and 2002 before Cotterill ultimately departed the Robins for Stoke City.
“Myself and Steve haven’t worked together for 13 or 14 years and I’ve never managed against one of his teams. The relationship we have is as a player and a manager not as a manager and a manager,” said Duff.
Shrewsbury have struggled at the start of this season, winning just two of their first eight games. Their form has picked up in recent weeks though, with a draw and a win in their last two league games.
“They have picked up in the last few weeks, we think we know what they’ll do, they’ll be a good team. Knowing the manager like I do they’ll be prepared,” said Duff in his press conference.
Cheltenham come into the game off the back of two games with Gillingham in the FA Cup, where they ultimately won the tie following a replay.
“I was pleased with the performance first and foremost and the results generally look after themselves. We kept a clean sheet and missed a few chances but that’s not a bad thing to be disappointed about.”
Shrewsbury boss Cotterill was at that game as his side look to gain a tactical advantage over Cheltenham who haven’t actually played a League game since they played Portsmouth away on the 2nd of November.
“I met with Steve before the game on Tuesday night. But once the whistle blows we’ll contest every decision, fall out with each other, and want each of our teams to win but once the whistle blows we’ll shake hands and the relationship won’t have changed.”
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