Everything to know about Shrewsbury Town signing Arkell Jude-Boyd

Arkell Jude-Boyd became Shrewsbury Town's first signing of the summer - here's everything you need to know about the defender.

Town beat off competition from several other clubs to secure the 23-year-old's signature.

Career beginnings and journey

Jude-Boyd joined Queens Park Rangers' academy at under-nine level, progressing through the youth ranks before signing his first professional contract with the club in the summer of 2022.

He then joined National League side Dagenham &Redbridge on a one-month development loan, although he did not make an appearance.

In the summer of 2023, Jude-Boyd agreed a new one-year deal with QPR before joining National League South side Torquay United on loan, where he enjoyed a productive spell.

The defender scored six goals in 17 appearances for the Gulls, winning three consecutive Player of the Month awards and being named the club's Young Player of the Season.

Jude-Boyd was released by QPR at the end of that campaign and subsequently joined Cheltenham Town. He departed the Robins at the end of the recent season following the expiry of his two-year contract.

Position

The 23-year-old is primarily a right-sided defender. However, upon announcing his signing, Shrewsbury said he is capable of playing at full-back, wing-back and in midfield.

International career

Jude-Boyd has won several caps for Saint Lucia.

He was included in the nation's 23-man squad for the 2023/24 CONCACAF Nations League in November 2023 but was unable to feature due to documentation issues.

The right-sided defender was then named in Saint Lucia's squad for the 2024/25 CONCACAF Nations League and made his debut against Curaçao, scoring the opening goal in a 2-1 victory.

Where he arrives from

The attacking right-back spent two seasons with Cheltenham, making 57 League Two starts. He also made four substitute appearances and scored three league goals.

In total, Jude-Boyd made 83 appearances in all competitions for the Robins, scoring four goals.

The 23-year-old featured in both of Cheltenham's league meetings with Shrewsbury last season and provided an assist in the Robins' 3-1 victory over Town on Boxing Day.

Joining Shrewsbury

Salop beat off competition from a number of fellow League Two clubs to secure Jude-Boyd's services.

The defender has signed a two-year contract at the Croud Meadow, with the club holding the option of a third year.

Jude-Boyd joins former Cheltenham team-mates Will Boyle, Sam Stubbs, George Lloyd and Tom Sang at the Croud Meadow.