Graham Turner can bring the boom years to Shrewsbury Town for the second time.

That’s the verdict of Carleton Leonard, one of the stalwarts of the team Turner moulded to be the most successful in the club’s history in his first spell in charge more than two decades ago.

Turner was this morning unveiled as Paul Simpson’s successor as the six-week search for a new manager was brought to an end at the Greenhous Meadow.

The appointment will send excitement and expectation levels through the roof, and Leonard believes Turner is the man to rekindle the glory years for Shrewsbury.

“I think it’s a great appointment,” said Oswestry-based Leonard, who works for the club’s Centre of Excellence and last year ran the under-16 team.

“Graham knows the club and had a lot of success when he was here before.

“He helped Shrewsbury to the pinnacle of their history and built a great side.

“He has gone on to have success with Wolves and Hereford and I think it’s the perfect appointment for Shrewsbury at this time.

“He was a great manager to work under when he was at the club the first time and we had a really good side.

“And I’m sure he has got even better the more experience he has got.

“Being both chairman and manager at Hereford must have been really tough for Graham and a big strain trying to do the two jobs.

“But I think he realises that his forte is managing a football team and I think Shrewsbury can really benefit.”

Leonard believes the appointment will bring the feelgood factor back to the club, and Shrewsbury as a whole.

“I think the whole town will be buzzing at this news and it will give the club itself a massive lift,” added Leonard.

“I would have thought it will have a big impact on season ticket sales and interest in the club.

“Town have been knocking on the door over the last two seasons in League Two. They have been in the top six for a lot of the season but have end up failing.

“Hopefully Graham can bring the success everyone at the club wants.”

By James Garrison