Paul Baker has been discussing backroom staff changes with www.ctfc.com.
Cheltenham Town chairman Paul Baker has expressed his delight with the appointment of Steve Elliott to the club's backroom staff.Steve, 35, agreed terms on a one year contract which will see him become a player/coach here at Whaddon Road for the 2014-15 season and his appointment has been met with a positive reaction from Robins supporters.
The former Bristol Rovers defender will now move into a fifth season as a Cheltenham Town defender with the added responsibilities of being on the backroom staff and Paul Baker believes it will be a massive boost not only to Mark Yates, but the whole club too.
"I think it is a really exciting appointment," said Paul.
"We shook hands on a deal yesterday so, as far as I'm concerned, it is a done deal and Steve will be a player/coach for next season. I think it is the first time we have ever had a player/coach so we're treading new territory but Steve is really excited for the opportunity because he's looking to pursue his career in football and getting into coaching.
"We like to promote from within and keep people around the club who have got knowledge and longevity with the club and who the fans can relate too."
Steve's appointment as a player/coach is just one step in what is a backroom staff restructure and a first team coach will be appointed ahead of the new season to aid Mark Yates and the rest of the management team.
Paul revealed to www.ctfc.com that there was a budget to appoint a new coach and that the process will begin this week.
"There is budget put by for a first team coach," revealed Paul.
"I think we are interviewing three candidates this week but obviously we don't know whether any of those will be successful or whether they'll want to come but we would hope to make an announcement sooner rather than later because we want to put these things to bed so Mark can work with his team with a view to recruitment for next season and it will be a big close season for Mark."
You can watch Paul's thoughts on Steve Elliott and backroom staff changes on the official YouTube channel here or using the video player below. For the extended interview with Paul about this subject and more, head to Robins Player here.