Neil Ashton is hoping his patience will be rewarded with a prolonged run in the Shrewsbury first team – after making his first League start for Town in 11 months.

Ashton had not begun a League Two game for Shrewsbury since the New Year’s Day defeat at Peterborough before slotting in on the left side of midfield for the 2-2 draw at Chesterfield last Friday.

The versatile scouser spent four months on loan at Macclesfield at the end of last season and has had to rely on substitute appearances in the League this term.

But after catching the eye at Saltergate, Ashton hopes he has done enough to retain his place for this weekend’s trip to Lincoln. “I’ve had a few bits and bobs but it was nice to come back in for a League start because it’s been a long time coming,” said the 23-year-old.

“It wasn’t ideal being at Macclesfield when the new manager took over at Shrewsbury but the positive was I was playing regular football there.

“I felt I had done well in reserve team games this season and I have just kept plugging away.

“I spoke to the manager a couple of times because I was a little bit worried about the lack of football I was getting.

“He just told me to stay positive and my chance would come and that’s how it worked.

“I felt I did pretty well at Chesterfield last week. I was a bit nervous to start with but the 85 minutes I played will do me the world of good and hopefully I can stay in the team for this weekend and beyond.”

Meanwhile, Shrewsbury’s young guns take centre stage tonight when they entertain Bradford in round two of the FA Youth Cup at the Prostar Stadium.

Victory for Town would earn them a third round trip to Portman Road to take on Ipswich. “I watched Bradford beat Scunthorpe in the last round and they deserved to got through,” said head of youth Nigel Vaughan.

“It’s always good to have a run in the competition. We have lost the last two games (to Wrexham and Oldham) but hopefully the lads can rise to the challenge tonight.”

Tonight’s clash kicks off at 7pm with admission £3 adults and £1 concessions.

By JAMES GARRISON