Shrewsbury Town defender Aaron Pierre embraces competition under Gareth Ainsworth

The defender, who scored his first goal of the season in the remarkable 3-2 success over Birmingham City last month, was suspended for the 4-1 mauling at Cambridge United on Saturday. 

Pierre started the opening three games of the campaign but made just two league starts in between his two international breaks with Grenada in September and October. 

The 31-year-old has since started four of the last six games in League One and feels he has dealt well with his short spell out of the team.

He said: "It is not an individual sport, it is a team sport. It is one of those ones that even if I am doing well, we've got great players. 

"If they take their opportunities, that is just how it is. It is a competitive game, sometimes situations like that happen and you just have to deal with it accordingly. 

"Hopefully the following week, I am selected for me to perform properly and that is just how it goes." 

And Pierre, who penned a new 12-month deal earlier this year, insists he is determined to play whatever role under new boss Gareth Ainsworth. 

"As long as I am playing it does not really matter to me," Pierre responded when asked if he preferred playing in a back-three or four. 

"I have played in all formations. As long as the tactical element and how everyone has to go about it works then it does not really matter what the formation is. As long as we score goals and keep clean sheets. 

"Most importantly, as long as I'm playing, you could put me in goal if you want. 

"As long as I am playing and I am part of it - I am with it."