Full-back James Meredith is to stay with AFC Telford United until the end of the season following lengthy talks with neighbours Shrewsbury Town.

Meredith has been a hit at the New Bucks Head since first joining in October and boss Rob Smith was determined to retain him for the Blue Square North run-in.

The financial terms of the season-long loan deal were believed to be proving a potential stumbling block, but agreement was reached yesterday afternoon – allowing the Australian defender to complete his move.

“There were long, long negotiations,” said Smith. “They’ve been going on since before Christmas when we started talking to James and then latterly with Paul Simpson at Shrewsbury to finalise it.

“The object was always to keep him and it suits all parties for him to be playing his football here, but everyone has to be happy with the deal and these things take time.

“I think the uncertainty has affected him and his head’s been spinning, but he was quite comfortable with staying with us all along.

“One thing is for certain – if he has nothing else on the table at the end of the season then I’d be prepared to offer him something here because I really rate him and think he’s got a big future.”

Meanwhile, Smith has not ruled out the possibility of bringing in further new faces ahead of Saturday’s FA Trophy second round clash with Hayes & Yeading.

The Telford chief and assistant Larry Chambers have both been busy behind the scenes, though it is far from certain that any deal will be done in time for the cup tie.

“We’re looking at a number of options but, whoever we get, it is likely that they will be cup-tied in any case,” he added.

“At least it seems our injuries are starting to clear up. Lee Vaughan should be back and Stuart Whitehead is close, so that’s the best news I’ve had all week.”

By CHRIS HUDSON