Fresh Shrewsbury Town injury update after defender misses Aston Villa friendly

Defender Sam Stubbs missed Shrewsbury Town’s final pre-season outing with a minor injury.

Stubbs was absent for Saturday’s victory over Aston Villa’s youngsters after featuring regularly throughout pre-season, but boss Gavin Cowan confirmed the issue is not a major concern.

Asked about Stubbs, the Salop boss said: “He just had a little bit of a niggle in the week. So, we're just managing it.

“Truth is, I think if it was a league game, he would have wrestled to get himself out there.

“But I think this stage of the season, again, results with a little bit of material, we’re very focused on having the right attitude and application. Learning our process, a way of playing in and out of possession, and then staying healthy.

“The big thing, similar to Pricey really, is just making sure we wrap them in cotton wool.

“It just doesn’t make sense, they’re up on their loads, those lads know how to play football. And yeah, you’d like to think they’ll be available for next week.”

Stubbs was joined on the sidelines by Jack Price and Luca Hoole, who are both working their way back from injury.

With the competitive campaign beginning in the Carabao Cup next Saturday, Cowan is hopeful all three will be available for selection.

He added: “It’ll be a big week for them. I’m obviously the optimist because I’m always wanting them to be fit and available.

“But they’re working really hard, they’re doing everything that they possibly can be.

“It's what we’ve got a squad for. I’d like to think that they could be in with a fighting chance.”