28th July 2022
Tom Davies has secured his third target of pre-season, with midfielder Izzy Cook putting pen to paper for 2022/23.
19 year old Izzy joins from Bristol City Women and is The Club’s third signing in four days, following the announcements of midfielder Charlie Taylor after a spell in America, and forward Emma Congrave from West Bromwich Albion Women.
At 18, Cook signed a professional contract with Bristol City, making her first senior start against Durham in September 2021, having battled back from a string of injuries.
Speaking to Jon Palmer of Gloucestershire Live, Cook said “I saw that Cheltenham were promoted and did really well last season.
“I was ideally looking for a club in Tier Three to prioritise game time for myself this season and what better place to do so at a club 15 minutes from my house. After speaking to Tom (Davies, manager) I was sold on the vision and professionalism of the club.”
Cook’s footballing journey started at the age of five, and she played alongside boys for ten years until she was 15 before joining Swindon Girls, along with training at the Gloucester Advanced Coaching Centre (ACC). “I went to a few South West camps during that time and when I turned 16 I had my first proper England Under-16 camp,” she said.
After leaving school, she joined Bristol City’s academy, eventually progressing into their First Team while also attending England Under-17 camps. Cook style is best described as a quick player who can play on the wing, or centrally, where she enjoys driving at players and scoring goals.
“My early impressions are that Cheltenham are very prepared for the season ahead and everything such as communication and training has been very professional,” she said. “All the staff and players have been extremely welcoming and approachable and have the same goals and aspirations for the season ahead.
“My aim is to definitely be near the top of the table and get some confidence playing football again. I think tier three is a very physical league so it’s going to be a good challenge for me.”
Manager Tom Davies was spoke of his pride at Cook’s signing, telling The Club’s website “Izzy’s a fantastic talent and we’re delighted that she’s committed to us after others have shown interest in signing her. We’re looking forward to getting her back playing regular minutes, enjoying her football and being a threat to opposition sides.”
Cheltenham’s FA Women’s National League Southern Premier season starts on August 21, with a home clash against Plymouth Argyle Women. For a list of The Club’s 2022/23 fixtures, click here.
