Gill accepts Rovers coaching role

Jerry Gill played over 200 games in four and a half years at Cheltenham

Veteran defender Jerry Gill has left Cheltenham Town to become first team coach at Forest Green Rovers.

Gill moves to the Blue Square Premier club as coach immediately, and will play as a loanee until January.

He told BBC Radio Gloucestershire: "I watched the Torquay game, and Rovers have a young team which can improve."

"They've had a lot of injuries in September, but their form in August was good. I hope I can tap into my contacts and help out."

The 38-year-old Birmingham City full-back, who joined Cheltenham from Northampton in February 2004, was part of the side that won the League Two play-off final against Grimsby in 2006.

He was transfer-listed by new Cheltenham manager Martin Allen last week - but Forest Green manager Jim Harvey has been quick to act.

"I spoke with Jim Harvey at the Torquay game," said Gill. "We hit it off straightaway because his beliefs are very similar to mine.

"At times, we'll have different opinions but we are both excited about it and, if we can be successful, who knows where it will take us. I think getting into the play-offs this season is still achievable."