Relieved winger Marc Pugh believes the decision to overturn the first red card of his career will prove the catalyst for change of personal fortunes at Shrewsbury Town.

Pugh finds himself back into contention for a role in Saturday’s visit of Darlington after having his Saturday’s dismissal at Port Vale reversed.

The 21-year-old winger was shown a straight red card for a challenge on Vale defender Anthony Griffith just three minutes after coming on as a substitute for his first Town appearance in four months.

After studying replays, Shrewsbury elected to appeal and the FA’s disciplinary committee overturned the decision from referee Trevor Kettle and withdrew the three-match suspension.

That meant Pugh was available for this afternoon’s reserve team visit of Mansfield and the forthcoming first-team games – and the former Bury man is determined to make the most of his reprieve.

“It’s a massive relief and it’s hard to put into words how pleased I am,” said Pugh.

“It is quite hard to get a decision over-turned but I looked at the replays and I thought there was no way it was a sending off.

“The official referee’s report said I made contact with the man before the ball but that just wasn’t the case.

“The gaffer has been really good through it all. He asked me what I felt about appealing because there is always a risk the suspension could be increased from three games to four.

“But I was willing to take that risk because I’m desperate to be involved in first-team games.

“It’s been a difficult season for me but hopefully my luck is about to change.”

That formed part of a double boost for Town, who have also learned that the injury sustained to midfielder Kevin McIntyre isn’t as bad as first feared.

A trip to the specialist yesterday confirmed two fractures in the fibula – but there will not be a need for surgery and he now looks part to play some part again this season.

“It’s good news because the specialist has said that Kevin could be back within six weeks,” said manager Paul Simpson.

“It’s a big boost and it gives him a goal to aim for as the fear was that he may have needed an operation.”

Young goalkeeper Jaz Singh has joined BGB Southern League outfit Sutton Coldfield on a one month’s loan.

By JAMES GARRISON