Shipley’s a star but can still be better – City boss
MARK Robins has paid tribute to one of Coventry City’s ‘own’ after the player chalked up an impressive milestone at Sunderland.
Sky Blues midfielder Jordan Shipley made his 100th appearance for his hometown club at the Stadium of Light, helping the side to a decent point on Wearside.
And Robins has spelled out his hopes for the 22-year-old Academy graduate who has established himself as a regular under the manager, helping the club gain promotion from League Two and then stepping up to prove himself at the next level.
“He’s done brilliantly and he’s improved but also over the last twoand-a-half years, really, he’s been a constant so that’s credit to him,” said Robins .
“He’s a local lad and the supporters love him for that, and he’s improving all the time. He’s a good lad and wants to improve.
“I remember when I first walked in the building he was one of the first players to catch my eye.
“We had conversations about various things and he came back in the pre-season and was ready to go, worked his way into the team and stayed in the team and ended up scoring at Wembley and contributing greatly to promotion. So he’s earned his 100th appearance.”
As big a fan of the player as he is, Robins insists there’s still room for improvement for the midfield ace who has waded in with three goals so far this season, and 12 over the course of his senior career to date – none more important than the team’s second at Wembley Stadium in the playoff final against Exeter City.
“He’s a good player and there are times when you want him to have a bit more belief in himself.
“But that will come with experience,” said the manager.
“But he can be proud of his achievement and look forward to a hundred more.
“At the end of day he deserves it,” Robins added.
“He has scored some good goals, some important goals and has done it on some big occasions.
“But he’s also created some and scored two on the bounce in recent weeks, and hopefully he can keep improving.”