Town will take on Burton Albion

Shrewsbury Town were today handed an opening day clash with Football League newcomers Burton Albion – as the future of Ben Davies took a fresh twist.

As Town learned they will host the Blue Square Premier champions in the first match of the 2009-10 campaign on Saturday, August 8, League Two rivals Notts County were confirming their interest in signing Davies.

But there are claims of interest from elsewhere with Davies' football consultant Ian Taylor saying four League One teams – including Millwall – and one Championship club have registered an interest in the former Chester man.

And now County, who are on the brink of being taken over by a Middle East consortium which could bring a fresh injection of money, have confirmed Davies is amongst their targets.

"Ben's a talented player who would offer something different in midfield to what we already have and I've spoken to his agent to register our interest," said manager Ian McParland.

"In fairness, I've spoken to a lot of agents about of lot of players in the past couple of months and Ben Davies is one of those. As things stand, we haven't gone beyond that – but you never know what the future might hold."

Meanwhile, Town follow up their clash with Burton with two away League games in four days at Barnet and Dagenham & Redbridge.

Their first clash against a relegated club comes with the visit of Crewe on September 12.

Games against Hereford come at Edgar Street on November 24 and the Prostar Stadium on February 13, while Town's Christmas programme sees them host Macclesfield on Boxing Day before trips to Bradford on December 28 and Chesterfield on January 2.

And there is an intriguing final day of the season trip to Port Vale on May 8.

Meanwhile, manager Paul Simpson has played down media reports in the West Country that defender Graham Coughlan could be lined up for a coaching role with his former club Plymouth.

"I fully expect Graham to start the season with us," said the Town boss.

"He played 50 games last season which was a magnificent achievement and I want him to stay on as captain.

"Graham and Mike Jackson have both just passed their 'A' licence coaching badges and it would be good for them to do some coaching with the younger players."

By JAMES GARRISON