Johnson Gains An Assistant But Loses A Keeper

Alex Bass has returned to Portsmouth after being recalled by his parent club.

Injuries at Fratton Park have forced Kenny Jackett’s hand and Gulls counterpart Gary Johnson said: “We wish Alex all the best because he’s going to be a very good goalkeeper when he’s gained a little bit more experience.”

He has a new assistant after Aaron Downes, a former Plainmoor player of course, was appointed as Johnson’s number two.

The manager told the club’s website: “I think people respected his energy and his enthusiasm and his commitment in his playing days.

“He’s very similar now in his coaching.

“We had been working for four years together. We put a conference winning team together at Cheltenham; Cheltenham’s loss is our gain.

“It is something that enhances our staff and that’s what I want to do. I want to get as many people as I can on the playing staff and coaching staff that makes us better all-round.

“I’m grateful to the powers that be here, the owners, and the directors for allowing me to bring Aaron in. It really does enhance the staff that we’ve already got.”