Grimsby Town boss Artell relieved as transfer window closes after challenging

Grimsby Town head coach David Artell expressed relief that the transfer window closed after a difficult period, confirming two late loans and 11 summer deals despite York City complications over Mark Shelton.

Grimsby Town head coach David Artell admitted the transfer window had been horrific and challenging in lots of ways, but expressed relief that it is now closed. The Grimsby Live outlet reported that Artell confirmed two loan signings on deadline day: Mark Shelton from York City and Finlay Cartwright, completing 11 summer transfers despite squad uncertainty at York over Shelton’s release.

How did Artell describe the deadline day experience?

Artell said: "[It was] horrific," admitted Artell on how deadline day was for him. "There were different reasons for that, and [having to play on the day] was part of it." He added that the window as a whole had been challenging in lots of ways and difficult to get through, but he is confident the team has improved from last season and must now show it on the pitch.

What complications arose over the Shelton loan?

York City initially hesitated to allow the Shelton deal to proceed due to a change of manager and squad considerations, making the loan particularly difficult and unusual to complete. Shelton, 29, had previously signed for York in the same window before joining Grimsby on loan, a sequence that required careful negotiation amid shifting priorities at the Yorkshire club.

How does Grimsby Town stand in League Two now?

League standing: 11th in League Two, 6 pts, 1W-3D-0L from 4 games, recent form DDDW. Goals this season: 5 scored, 4 conceded (+1 goal difference). Title race: 3 points behind leaders Bristol Rovers. The club can review their upcoming fixtures on our fixtures page and assess squad options via the squad overview as they aim to build on Artell’s confidence in their progress.

What does Artell believe the squad has achieved?

Despite the difficulties, Artell stated he is "very confident in saying that, so now we’ve got to show that on the pitch" regarding improvements made over the summer. The head coach, who referred to the process as not an enjoyable experience for himself, emphasized that the 11 deals completed-including the late Shelton and Cartwright loans-have strengthened the group ahead of the season’s demands.