Australian defender Shane Cansdell-Sherriff – one of Shrewsbury Town’s longest serving players – today hailed the current squad as the strongest in his time at the club.

Along with goalkeeper Chris Neal, the ex Tranmere man is one of only two Paul Simpson signings who remain at the Greenhous Meadow.

And Cansdell-Sherriff believes the squad built by Graham Turner this summer is the most talented since he arrived in Shropshire in 2008.

“There is a lot of ability,” said the 28-year-old.

“In the past we have had players like Ben Davies and Grant Holt who were a couple of players who stood out.

“But in terms of all round ability, this squad is right up there – and I know the gaffer still wants to bring a couple more in.”

Cansdell-Sherriff is delighted with the way the pre-season programme is developing after a behind- closed-doors victory over Tranmere was followed up by victory over youthful Manchester United and Wolves squads.

“It’s been going well so far,” he added. “It’s been good to get the victories but it’s all about being right for the first game.

“We haven’t been destroyed on the running side but we have worked hard.

“You can tell it’s been a well thought out programme.”

Cansdell-Sherriff is gearing up for a three-pronged battle for a starting berth in his preferred position at centre half alongside Ian Sharps – who is still struggling with a groin niggle –and new signing Reuben Hazell.

But he may begin the season at left back owing to a three match suspension for Joe Jacobson who was sent off in last season’s play-offs for his former club Accrington Stanley.

“It is an option and I would be happy to do it if the gaffer felt it was best for the team,” he added.

Town were today waiting on an update on striker Tom Bradshaw who limped out of Friday’s 2-0 friendly victory over a Wolves XI with a worrying knee injury.

By JAMES GARRISON