Boss Graham Turner has hailed the unity within his promotion chasing Shrewsbury Town squad – despite the intense competition for places.

Wing wizards Lionel Ainsworth and Jon Taylor, as well as young forwards James Collins and Tom Bradshaw, are amongst the players who have been left out of the Town starting line-up during their four-match winning streak.

That demonstrates the strength in depth at the Greenhous Meadow, and Turner insists he is delighted with the way the entire squad are coming together in an attempt to achieve the common goal of promotion.

On how difficult team selection is proving, he admitted: “It is a problem but they have all got to make sure their attitude stays spot on in training so when called upon they are ready.

“I’ve seen no signs at all of any dissenting voices or dissenting manner in training.

“The whole thing has been absolutely spot on with the way players have gone about their business.

“It has been an enjoyable month for the players.

“It’s been real hard work in training, but they have come through that and it’s shown in the games with the results coming along with the level of performance.”

With the hectic festive period looming, including two games in 48 hours, Turner is aware his entire squad will be required.

“Players realise they are playing for their places but with the Christmas and New Year games coming thick and fast, we will need all the squad fit and performing well,” he added.

“I’m just sorting out the schedules out for training and matches and it’s going to be a busy period.”

Adding to his concerns is that Shrewsbury have no home game over Christmas, travelling to Cheltenham on Boxing Day and Bradford on New Year’s Eve.

• Town lost 2-1 in their friendly outing at Crewe yesterday, Jon Taylor grabbing the Shrewsbury goal.