Mat Sadler tips Shrewsbury's Ollie Norburn to rise to the top

Norburn was one of boss John Askey’s top targets over the summer and Town shelled out a record transfer fee for his capture from Tranmere.

The 25-year-old Mancunian has completed 90 minutes in Town’s last three league games, a win and two draws.

His energetic and cultured style has caught the eye and skipper Sadler hailed the midfielder’s influence on recent Shrewsbury improvements.

“Another thing is what Norbs has done since coming in the team and being fit and able to play 90 minutes,” said Sadler on the midfielder, who also lists Bristol Rovers and Macclesfield as former clubs.

“For me he’s got the potential to be whatever he wants to be.

“He’s played at a level in the past that he should be aspiring to be higher than. As we’ve seen he’s got a range of passing and lots of drive.

“I think he’ll score goals from outside the box because he’s got a hell of a strike on him.

“His ability is better than the divisions he’s played in.

“I hope that, for him, we’ll see the best of him. I hope he goes on and fulfils what I think he can be.”

Sadler is part of a new-look back four at Town that has shipped eight goals in as many league games, the joint-fourth meanest in the division.

After being left out at the beginning of the season, he is now gelling alongside another new acquisition, Luke Waterfall.

The familiar figure of Omar Beckles has won the shirt at left-back and has put in solid displays similar to that of last season, while right-back Josh Emmanuel – on loan from Paul Hurst’s Ipswich – has had two fine outings in Town colours.

“I’ve played with Omar at left-back for however many games now and feel comfortable with him next to me,” Sadler continued. “I’m growing in a partnership with Luke, it takes time.”

Meanwhile, young midfielder George Hughes has joined Stalybridge Celtic on loan until January.