Tigers secure goalkeeper as player-coach

EXPERIENCED goalkeeper Jake Cole has joined Gloucester City as their new player-coach, writes Mark Halliwell.

The stopper joins defender Luke Pennell in making the switch from Maidstone United.

Cole, 34, started his career in the Championship with Queens Park Rangers, playing six times in between spells on loan at Hayes, AFC Wimbledon, Oxford United and Barnet.

In 2009 he joined Barnet on a permanent basis and appeared for the Bees 87 times in League Two before joining Plymouth Argyle in 2011, establishing himself as their first choice.

After three seasons and 91 games for Argyle in League Two, he then went into the National League with Woking and later Aldershot and spent last season in the National League South at Maidstone, playing 28 times.

City co-chairman Alex Petheram said: “Jake has the experience and contacts in the game that tick a lot of boxes as first-team coach.

“He’ll be able help develop not only keepers like Niall (Maher), but the young talent within our youth team and ladies set up.

“At 34, he’s a great age for a goalkeeper, I just couldn’t see a negative in bringing him in.

“Jake also knows Matty (McClure), Luke (Pennell), Fabien (Robert) and Bernard (Mensah) from days gone by, so I’m hoping he settles in quickly both on and off the field.”

Cole added: “I’m very pleased to sign for Gloucester City and I’m looking forward to a new challenge in the role given to me by the gaffer. It’ll be good to link up with some former team-mates and to have a positive season.”

Defender Pennell committed to the club for the upcoming season after the 24-year-old former England C international had made seven appearances for the club since joining in January from Maidstone United.

He said: “I’m really pleased to be back for next season, I’m excited to see Meadow Park completed and just can’t wait to be back playing football.”