John Askey excited to develop Shrewsbury's attacking prospects
John Askey wants to tap into the potential of prospects Abo Eisa and Fejiri Okenabirhie as the duo aim for breakthrough seasons at Shrewsbury Town.
The boss is excited by what both of the 22-year-old attackers can bring to his team this season.
Striker Okenabirhie, who can also play wide, joined for an undisclosed fee from Dagenham & Redbridge and scored twice on his Town bow against Kidderminster before a cameo at Bristol City.
Eisa, signed from non-league Wealdstone by Paul Hurst in January, thrilled fans with his direct displays towards the end of last season. He scored a fine solo goal in a behind-closed-doors friendly against Kidderminster last week.
Askey said on Okenabirhie: “You can’t have a better start. Scoring with your first touch after however many seconds, that’s got to give him confidence.
“He could’ve scored more. He got two, but the fact he got opportunities shows he’s a goalscorer.
“It doesn’t matter who you play against. The fast he kept getting shots in and chances shows what he’s about.
“He’s got all the attributes to do so, there’s no reason why he shouldn’t adapt. If he keeps his confidence, with a fair wind, he should do well for us.”
Okenabirhie will battle with Stefan Payne, Aaron Amadi-Holloway and Lenell John-Lewis for a place in Askey’s attack.
Eisa will compete for wide positions with Alex Gilliead, Shaun Whalley and Arthur Gnahoua.
The boss added on Eisa: “He did great. Went passed a couple of players, cut in and finished it well. He’s got a lot of potential.
“He’s very quick, can run all day and has an eye for a goal. It’s good to be able to work with him and help him improve.
“When you’ve got pace like he’s got and can run like he can you’ve always got a chance.
“Again he’s one who needs games. Hopefully he’ll come good this season.
“Like any of them, if they do well then they’ve got a great chance to keep their spot. When he first came he’s playing in a side that’s doing well.
“It’s difficult because the manager doesn’t want to break his side. With pre-season he has everything to play for and it’s up to him now.”
Askey said that reports claiming Peterborough midfielder Anthony Grant had turned down a move to Shrewsbury are untrue, but said Town had shown interest.
He added: “No is the answer (turning down Town). Obviously he’s a Peterborough player and I think he has another year on his contract.
“At the moment we’re looking at every option. I can’t say we haven’t looked, because he’s obviously been a good player at this level, but as far as I know he’s tied up with Peterborough.”
