Key midfielder Nicky Wroe is set to hand Shrewsbury Town a big FA Cup boost by declaring himself fit for Saturday’s testing first round trip to Newport County.

The 26-year-old was a League Two ever present up until Saturday’s trip to Dagenham & Redbridge but missed out on that 2-0 victory with a groin strain.

Wroe, however, is making good progress and boss Graham Turner is confident of him returning to full training tomorrow.

The likely recovery of the former Torquay man will see Town’s midfield options expand further following the signing of Cardiff youngster Aaron Wildig on loan yesterday.

Town are likely to be without strike pair Tom Bradshaw and James Collins for the trip to Newport after their call-ups for the Wales and Republic of Ireland under 21 squads.

There remains a glimmer of hope that Collins will be available, and Turner admits the selections are a double edged sword.

“You want the players to be playing international football,” he said.

“But this is the third time this season so far they have disappeared and on the first occasion they missed two matches.”

Meanwhile, defender Reuben Hazell has been given the all clear to continue his rehabilitation from the serious knee injury sustained against Torquay at the end of September.

“I saw the specialist and he re-iterated that I didn’t need an operation,” said the experienced former Oldham captain, who it was initially feared will be ruled out for the rest of the season.

“I have to see him again in six weeks and I hope by that stage, I will be close to getting back to full training.

By James Garrison