Shrewsbury Town's Junior Brown upbeat despite injury

Town were rocked by the news that the popular left-back will miss the entire season after injuring his anterior cruciate ligament in the 1-0 victory against Fleetwood last month.

Brown underwent surgery last weekend and, while he is now on crutches, has begun his rehabilitation with Town physio Chris Skitt.

The 28-year-old, one of Shrewsbury’s star men in their rise to the top of League One, is keeping a positive mentally as he battles to return to full strength.

“I knew something wasn’t right, I knew it wasn’t going to be good news,” said Brown. “To get the news that I did was a bit crushing really, especially with the way the performances have been going, not only for me personally but for the team.

“To know that it was going to be such a long period out was a bit soul-destroying.

“At the same time you’ve got to stay positive. I’m still part of the squad, I’m still in every day, I’m still working, still at games and things like that – I’ll be doing my part in and around to try to keep motivation and spirits high.

“To be honest with you, Skitty’s probably had enough of me already in terms of the way I am. I’m trying to stay on top of things and pushing him to try and make light of every situation because it’s a tough one to be in.

“Skitty’s fantastic. He knows his stuff, we’d already been working hard before the operation.”

Brown had featured in every minute of Paul Hurst’s side’s league campaign until the injury. He clocked up his 100th appearance for the club earlier in the season.

He added: “There are going to be days where it’ll be frustrating mentally. I’m not one for taking my time with things, I want to get back as quick as possible,

“It’ll be a long, tough road but I’m ready for the fight and I’m looking forward to getting back on the pitch.”

Skitt, who guided former Town players James Wesolowski and Nathaniel Knight-Percival back from similar injuries, has the upmost confidence in Brown’s mentality.

“I’ve been massively impressed with his mentality but not surprised having got to know Ju for a number of years now. He’s a fighter and a winner,” said Skitt.

“There is absolutely not reason why he shouldn’t or can’t come back strong.”