Tough-tackling midfielder Kevin McIntyre today committed his future to Shrewsbury Town – as speculation grew that top scorer Dave Hibbert is close to joining Peterborough.

McIntyre, 32, was one of five out-of-contract members of the squad offered fresh deals at the Prostar Stadium on Friday.

And, while players officially have four weeks to reach a final decision, McIntyre has wasted no time in indicating he is planning to put pen to paper on his one-year-deal.

“I was over the moon when the letter came through the post on Friday because last week was the longest ever,” said the former Macclesfield man.

Up in the air

“It would have been great if it was a two-year offer, but I’m just happy to be staying at the club.

“I don’t think it has sunk in yet. I’m sure I will be there next season and it’s just a case of me going into the club to sign the contract.

“You do worry because, individually and collectively, it hasn’t been the best of seasons and things are always up in the air when a manager gets sacked.

“I can go away and enjoy the rest of my summer now and come back fresh and ready to have a real go at it next season.”

Leading scorer Hibbert is the highest profile figure mulling a contract offer from Town amid on-going conjecture the 15-goal hitman is closing in on a move to Peterborough.

The League One club have confirmed they are in negotiations with the striker, and sources in Peterborough believe the deal could be completed in the next 48 hours.

Benjamin van den Broek, Shane Cansdell-Sherriff and young defender Harry Hooman are also mulling over contract offers.

Meanwhile, vice-chairman Keith Sayfritz revealed today that the Town Board are in the process of joining up a shortlist for the vacant manager’s job.

“Over the last week we have received more applications and expressions of interest,” said Sayfritz.

“There are one or two that have been particularly interesting and we are in the process of starting to finalise the shortlist.”

That would indicate there are few signs, at this stage, that the managerial hunt will end this week.

By JAMES GARRISON