Midfielder Craig Disley is eyeing a fairytale end to a frustrating first season with Shrewsbury Town.

The 28-year-old former Bristol Rovers midfielder has been restricted to just 17 starts in his first campaign at the Prostar Stadium because of long-term knee and ankle injuries.

But Disley returned to training on Thursday after being sidelined for eight weeks and isn’t giving up hope of playing a part in the final week.

“I was a bit off the pace but there has been no reaction to the injury and it’s just a bonus to be back out there,” he said.

“When I damaged my ankle at Rotherham (in February) I thought it was my season over so it’s a big boost that I have got a chance in the last two games.

“There is a reserve game next Thursday (at Derby) but we will have to see on that one.

“If the medical staff think it’s just best to have a week in training then so be it.

“The Morecambe game next Saturday might be too soon for me but I’m definitely targetting that last game at Port Vale.

“Hopefully I can be available with something on the game and we can push on all the way to the play-offs.”

Town’s chances of extending their season rest on the final three games, starting at Northampton this afternoon.

And, despite a four point gap separating Town from the top seven before the start of play today, Disley is refusing to give up hope.

“I was in exactly the same position with Bristol Rovers three seasons ago — four points behind with three games to go,” he added.

“We won our last three, got in the play-offs and went on to win the final against Shrewsbury.

“Maybe it’s written in the stars it will happen again here.”