After a rigorous recruitment drive, Paul Wotton of Torquay United has added striker Cody Cooke from National South rival Bath City.
The 31-year-old forward, who previously played for Truro City, St. Mirren, and Weymouth, comes to Plainmoor having scored 55 goals in 130 games for the Romans. It is thought that the Romans paid him a nominal fee for his services.
“Whilst we are incredibly disappointed to lose Cody, it is a transaction that is good for the player and importantly Bath City Football Club,” stated Bath manager Jerry Gill.
“Over the past three weeks, Cody and I have had a number of private conversations that will not be disclosed. He departs us on very good terms and with all of our best wishes. He has been the epitome of professionalism during his time with us, and we applaud him for his enormous efforts on the field.
According to Bath’s website, the agreement benefits Cody’s family and home life while also being satisfactory for both teams.
In 2011, Cornishman Cooke moved to Truro while pursuing a PGCE in Sport Development at Plymouth Marjon. He began his career with Penryn Athletic.
After joining Scottish premier league team St Mirren in 2018, he became a professional. That season, he made 17 appearances across all competitions, which helped the Saints avoid relegation. His most memorable performance came when he won 3-2 on the road against Dundee, scoring three of his four goals in his first season playing north of the border.
Cooke played in just ten games the next season, scoring one goal, before being cut at the end of the campaign. He subsequently spent a season with Weymouth before moving to Bath in July 2021.
Now that the friendly match against Plymouth Argyle on Saturday is sold out, Cooke is anticipated to make his debut for the Gulls.
The Gulls released the following statement: “Saturday’s game here at Plainmoor versus Plymouth Argyle is now a sell-out due to the incredible response by supporters.”
“Everyone who bought a ticket for the game is appreciated by the club,”
Tickets are available for Torquay’s Tuesday, July 30 (7.30pm) preseason friendly against Exeter City at Plainmoor.
In all areas of the ground, the prices are £12 for adults, £10 for those over 65, students, and members of the armed forces, £7 for those under 18, and £5 for those under 8.
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