Micky Mellon delighted to recruit Louis Dodds

The 29-year-old versatile attacker has signed a two-year deal after rejecting terms to stay at Port Vale, where he has been for eight years.

The stylish Sheffield-born forward, who can play as an attacking midfielder, number 10 or striker, scored 56 goals in 332 games for Vale and helped them win automatic promotion from League Two in 2012-13.

"Anyone that knows anything about League One football knows Louis Dodds is one of the most impressive performers in it. We've got a big strong boy who's a very good footballer," said the boss.

"He's the type we want to bring in. I'm sure Shrewsbury fans will now see the type of thing we're trying to build here.

"He's had a lot of games at this level and knows what it takes to win so he's a really good addition and a good guy so we're really pleased to get him."

Mellon was attracted to Dodds's versatility as much as anything.

"He scored against us this season but there's a lot more to his game than goals," added the Town chief.

"He can play in a number of positions but the main thing is he's ahead of the ball when defenders or midfielders are looking for somebody to give the ball to.

"He's a strong frontrunner, leads the line or plays just off front men really well.

"He can play wide but he's strong and can hold the ball with his movement and strength in the final third and keep it.

"That will help to get us up the right end of the pitch and cause some damage.

"He's always an option with his movement, strength and running power and he competes very well and wants to win games.

"He's a very good player again who I've known about for a long time - way back from my Fleetwood times.

"I've always been impressed by him and he's the type of player I believe we need to get into the club to keep us improving."

Dodds is happily settled in the Potteries but Mellon believes the time was right for him to have a change of scenery after eight years at Vale.

"It's probably a good time for Louis to have a change of environment," he said.

"He's been at Port Vale for a long time and given them great service and we're delighted to get him."