Bristol Live’s Bristol Rovers reporter Dan Hargraves shares his insight on Isaac Hutchinson, the attacking midfielder who joined Cheltenham Town on loan from the Gas on deadline day

15:34, 02 Sep 2025Updated 15:40, 02 Sep 2025

Isaac Hutchinson pictured in action for Brisotl Rovers(Image: Will Cooper/PPAUK)

How would you summarise Isaac Hutchinson’s time at Bristol Rovers so far?

Hutchinson was the first of what ended up being 16 signings in a much-needed squad overhaul last summer, joining from Walsall after a very impressive campaign in League Two where he had registered 27 goal contributions. He arrived in north Bristol with big shoes to fill after the departure of fan favourite and promotion hero Antony Evans to Huddersfield Town.

Overall, it hasn’t worked out quite how anyone would have hoped for Hutchinson in blue-and-white quarters. He popped up with a couple of important goals in wins last season but wasn’t able to do that on a consistent enough basis and was guilty of going missing in some matches. A recent interview calling for unity post-relegation has, ironically, caused division within the fanbase which hasn’t helped his popularity amongst Gasheads. He does already have two goals this season though.

What sort of player is he?

An attack-minded midfielder is how he has described himself in the past. A number 10 is probably his best role but he is also capable of playing as an eight. Goals and assists are the aim of his game, he just hasn’t been able to replicate the form he found at Walsall under Michael Flynn.

How much of an impact do you think he will make?

Working with an old manager is certainly encouraging for him. A fresh environment might do him some good. I certainly think he is a coup for Cheltenham Town.

How surprised are you that Rovers let him go on loan?

Initially when the story broke, I was quite surprised at both him going on loan and the destination. However, the more I have thought about it, the more it makes sense. Darrell Clarke, who Cheltenham fans know well, has repeatedly said that he doesn’t want any players who don’t want to be here and, after a tough time at Rovers exemplified by the backlash following a recent interview, I think it would be understandable if Hutchinson didn’t feel settled at the Gas. Only he can answer that though.

What have been Hutchinson’s stand-out moments in a Rovers shirt?

Goals in wins over Barnsley, Burton and Peterborough were important last season but, ultimately, he and his teammates couldn’t replicate previous form during the crunch period of the season which ultimately saw Rovers relegated. A free-kick against Tottenham Under-21s last week was probably his best goal technically.

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