A familiar face has returned to Shrewsbury Town to lend a helping hand while the club awaits the formal appointment of a new goalkeeper coach, as reported by the Shropshire Star.
With Brian Jensen having departed and head coach Gavin Cowan confirming that a replacement is close, former Salop goalkeeper Harry Burgoyne stepped back into the fold to assist with preparations ahead of the clash with Notts County. The 29-year-old worked closely with Matt Cox during pre-match routines, offering experience and continuity at a time of transition behind the scenes.
Burgoyne’s connection to the club runs deeper than a short-term appearance. The Ludlow-born stopper joined Town in January 2020 after spells with Wolverhampton Wanderers and several loan clubs, including AFC Telford United and Falkirk. Across four seasons at Montgomery Waters Meadow, he made 22 league appearances and became a respected presence in the dressing room.
Beyond his contributions on the pitch, Burgoyne was recognised for his work in the community. He was named the Professional Footballers’ Association Community Champion for the 2023 to 2024 season, reflecting his involvement with the Shrewsbury Town Foundation and the Her Game Too campaign. In March 2023, he became the club’s first player advocate for the initiative, promoting inclusion and raising awareness around women’s football.
Contracted to Alfreton Town
Now contracted to Alfreton Town, his return this week was temporary, but significant. For a club in transition within the coaching department, familiar voices matter. Goalkeeping is a specialist craft, and maintaining rhythm in warm ups and preparation can be the difference between confidence and uncertainty, particularly for a loan goalkeeper like Cox who is still settling into League Two demands.
Cowan has already indicated that formalities are all that remain before a new goalkeeper coach is unveiled, with the incoming figure expected to arrive from another club. In the meantime, Burgoyne’s presence provides stability and reassurance at a key moment in the season.
The off-field reshuffle comes at a significant moment in Shrewsbury’s season. Following relegation from League One, Michael Appleton’s tenure was cut short as results spiralled and the club slipped into a genuine League Two relegation scrap. Salop currently sit 19th in the table with 32 points from 32 matches, just five points above the drop zone, having conceded 51 goals.
Before their recent revival, form had been alarming: one win in 12 league matches between mid-December and early February, including heavy defeats to Bristol Rovers and MK Dons, plus an FA Cup exit at Wolves. However, three consecutive victories against Barrow, Swindon Town and Notts County have steadied the ship and offered renewed belief.
