Shrewsbury full-back Neil Ashton today cranked up the stakes ahead of this weekend’s visit of in-form Morecambe by labelling the clash a “must-win game.”

Ashton believes only a maximum points return will be enough to keep his side in contention for automatic promotion.

Shrewsbury are currently seventh in League Two, six points adrift of second-placed Gillingham from level games and five adrift of Wycombe in third, although Peter Taylor’s team still have two games in hand.

Ashton believes a top three finish is still in the grasp of Town – but only if they can down a Morecambe team who are themselves undefeated in 11 games after a run which has moved them into play-off contention.

“I read the other day that the phrase must-win game is the most over-used in football but I think it’s the case for us on Saturday if we want to cement our place in the play-offs and get closer to the top three,” said the 23-year-old.

“Everyone is still thinking about automatic promotion and Saturday is a massive game because Morecambe are on a good run.

“There’s always one team that comes out of the pack for the play-offs or automatic promotion and Morecambe are trying to do that with regards the play-offs.

“I think if we win Saturday, it could be one of the final nails in their coffin and would help us push on closer to the top three.”

Ashton has been recalled to the team for the last two away games at Aldershot and Gillingham, with Town reverting to a 4-5-1 formation.

And he will be hoping to retain his place in the starting line-up as Shrewsbury return to the Prostar Stadium.

“It’s been a bit stop-start for me this season but I have really enjoyed the last two games,” the left-back added.

“Hopefully now I can stay in the team and do what I can to help us achieve promotion.”

Meanwhile, Shrewsbury reserves were 3-0 winners at Port Vale yesterday.

By JAMES GARRISON