Shrewsbury full-back Luke Jones is confident of being fit for the start of pre-season as he continues to come to terms with the ultimate Wembley devastation.

The 20-year-old underwent an operation to repair cartilage at Oswestry last week after the former Blackburn youngster’s knee locked during the warm-up for the League Two play-off final 10 days ago.

That ill-timed injury cruelly robbed Jones of what is potentially a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity of playing at the new £750 million, 90,000-seater stadium.

But, rather than dwelling on his misfortune, Jones is looking to the future and is hoping for a quick recovery from his operation.

“The surgeon seemed happy that it went well,” said Jones. “I am still on crutches at the moment to keep the weight off the knee but it feels okay.

“I have to go back to see the consultant in a couple of weeks when I’m back from holiday and they will assess it again then.

“But I really am hoping to be back in time for the start of pre-season training.

“Everyone else will be there making a flying start and getting themselves ready for the season and I want to be amongst them and not losing ground.

“But I always work hard so whenever I get back fit, hopefully it won’t be too much longer before I’m available again.

“Obviously what happened at Wembley was a massive blow and the kind of disappointment that never really goes away.

“But it’s in the past now and you have to look forward because hopefully there will be other big games to come in my career.

“I can’t wait for next season to start – the gaffer has brought in some good players and we should be looking to push on and challenge for automatic promotion.”

Meanwhile, Preston North End striker Dave Hibbert has emerged as a summer transfer target for manager Gary Peters.

The 21-year-old cost the Lillywhites £35,000 in a tribunal when signed by Billy Davies from Port Vale two years ago.

The frontman has not made the breakthrough at Deeepdale and spent much of last season on loan spells at Bradford and Rotherham.

It is understood Preston would request a small fee for a player transfer listed by boss Paul Simpson if Town firm up their interest.

Peters has made no secret that a striker remains the final piece of his strengthening jigsaw after already recruiting five players.

By James Garrison