Richie Wellens joins Shrewsbury Town

The 35-year-old, who joins Kyle Vassell in joining today, was released by League One rivals Doncaster Rovers this month having made 16 appearances for them this season.

He spent the last six weeks of 2015 on loan at Oldham, who were also interested in signing him on a permanent basis.

The Mancunian started his career at Manchester United before amassing 589 League appearances for Blackpool, Oldham, Leicester - who paid £1million for him - Ipswich and two spells at Doncaster.

Now he is looking forward to a new challenge at Greenhous Meadow, with Wellens saying: "It's a good club - I've played at the stadium before and it's a club looking to progress.

"I've known the manager for quite a long time and I'm happy to be working with him. He's a good talker, I like the way he put his plans across to me."

Wellens is looking forward to some stability after a frustrating few weeks, saying: "I've had a bit of a frustrating season.

"I was playing really well at the start of the season with Doncaster, then the new manager came in and I went on loan to Oldham.

"We had four games called-off and I was cup-tied, but I'm raring to go now and looking to play some games."

Wellens admitted the length of contract offered was a key factor in his decision to sign.

He said: "The 18 months was a big thing. I feel fit and can play for a couple more seasons.

"Micky's brought me in to stay in the league, and if we can stay in the league this season then next year we can progress even more. "

Wellens is no stranger in the Town dressing room, adding: "I've played with some of the players here before.

"I played with Zak Whitbread at Leicester and Anthony Gerrard and I played with Andy Mangan at Blackpool.

"I'll get to know the other lads more over the next couple of weeks and get a connection on the pitch with them as well."