John Askey to take the patient approach at Shrewsbury Town

Former Macclesfield chief Askey has taken the reins at Montgomery Waters Meadow from Paul Hurst and is looking forward to meeting his squad and beginning pre-season training.

Silkmen stalwart Askey insists he is a manager that will show support to his players and not berate them from the sidelines and in training.

Last season’s National League title-winner is known for bringing players through and allowing them to develop, something Shrewsbury have excelled at during the last 18 months.

“I’m somebody who likes to encourage players, to develop them and give them time,” said the new Shrewsbury manager.

“The main thing is encouragement. Whatever job you do I think you work better when you’re told you’re doing a good job.

“If you’re not doing a good job then you need to be told as well, but the main thing is to encourage.

“It’s worked well for me. Having played the game, I appreciate what players have to go through. I’m sympathetic to their needs. But I also believe in discipline and working hard.”

Meanwhile, the Shropshire Star understands that reports defender Toto Nsiala is close to joining Sunderland are wide of the mark.

Nsiala caught the eye of former Black Cats boss Chris Coleman after impressing during Town’s sensational run to the League One play-off final last season.

Former St Mirren manager Jack Ross has since taken over at the Stadium of Light and speculation continues to link Nsiala with the League One new-boys.

But it’s believed Town have not received any offers for the man who was Paul Hurst’s first signing in January 2017.

It’s also understood Shrewsbury are not looking at Leyton Orient forward Macauley Bonne, despite reports elsewhere.