Paul Simpson directs his players

Manager Paul Simpson today revealed he had failed in his attempts to strengthen his defensive options for Shrewsbury Town’s hectic December programme.

The only transfer activity on yesterday’s loan deadline day came with the departure of young forward Andre Gray to AFC Telford for a month.

But Simpson revealed he had tried to bring in a defender to bolster a backline which has failed to keep a clean sheet in their last 12 games, the last one coming against Northampton on September 26.

“I have tried to strengthen our defence over the last week or two but I wasn’t able to do it in the end,” said Simpson.

“I thought there was a good chance yesterday afternoon but that fell through.

“I just felt that the back four was picking itself at the moment and there are not a hell of a lot of options there.

“I don’t like the fact there is no pressure to make sure the performance is right.

“But we weren’t able to do anything so hopefully we can get back to keeping clean sheets with the players we have got.”

Shrewsbury will now not be able to bring in new faces until the transfer window re-opens in January, meaning they will play at least the next six games with their current squad.

Town face a rare weekend without a game after their FA Cup defeat to Staines left them in-active on second round day tomorrow.

But Simpson is already planning for next Tuesday’s return to League Two action for the visit of third-placed Rotherham.

“We are working on a few things in training and the players will be in over the weekend to get ready for Tuesday,” added the Town.

“Myself and all the other staff will be out at games tomorrow, looking at teams and players that have been recommended to us.”

By JAMES GARRISON