Lenell John-Lewis targets more influential role after agreeing new one-year Shrewsbury Town deal

The striker, who turned 29 last month, was made the contract offer by former boss Paul Hurst but was delighted to find out he was a part of new manager John Askey's plans following discussions.

John-Lewis did not start for Town in League One last season after joining from Newport County. He made all 37 of his league outings from the bench, scoring three times in all competitions.

After signing until the end of the 2018/19 campaign, John-Lewis said: "I am delighted. It's nice to be back and to see old faces and new faces as well.

"After speaking to the gaffer it was pleasing to hear he was happy to have me here and that makes it a lot better.

"It was and it wasn't an easy decision. I had a lot of time to think about it. In the end it was speaking to the gaffer, the best thing for me and my family and my footballing career going forward."

Ex-Grimsby front man John-Lewis wants to be a more central figure as Askey heads into his first season as Town chief. He joins Stefan Payne and new striker Fejiri Okenabirhie as senior forwards in Shrewsbury's ranks.

"As everyone will know I didn't start many games last season, league games," he added.

"It was important to see if it was possible that I'd get more game time being here this season. It was pleasing to hear.

"The aim is more minutes, more starts, having a more influential role in the team and squad and hopefully getting more goals.

"I feel fit and ready to go from right now. Hopefully that will stand me in good stead going forward."

John-Lewis regularly won praise from the previous management and players as he often came from the bench with Town in strong positions and helped them see out results.

He continued: "I did have an important role but every footballer wants to start games. After the start last season it was very tough to get into the team.

"This season I can hopefully get more games and more goals."