Gavin Cowan explains Josh Ruffels’ Shrewsbury Town absence at Hereford

Josh Ruffels missed Shrewsbury Town’s pre-season draw at Hereford with illness, boss Gavin Cowan confirmed.

The defender was absent as Salop drew 1-1 at Edgar Street on Tuesday night, with Cowan opting not to take any risks ahead of the new League Two campaign.

Asked about Ruffels’ absence, Cowan said: “He’s not well. Josh has just picked up a little something.

“He’s got a couple of young kids, so I imagine he’s got it from them. But, yes, he’s as healthy as they come normally.

“We just wanted to look after him a little bit. Again, it’s pre-season, have I wrapped him up in cotton wool a little bit? Yes, that is the case.

“I am just wrapping him up in cotton wool.”

George Lloyd’s stunning second-half strike earned Town a draw as they missed several late chances to snatch victory.

Cowan also confirmed there were no fresh injury concerns following the match, with Jack Price, Luca Hoole and Jay Snook already sidelined after picking up knocks during pre-season.

The Salop boss added: “Everyone’s healthy, other than Boyle having a bit of a knock on his nose. Everyone’s really healthy.”