John Marquis praised for 'outstanding' return in Shrewsbury Town win

Captain John Marquis earned praise for an “outstanding” performance on his first Shrewsbury Town start since returning from injury.

Marquis led Salop to a vital victory over Tranmere Rovers last Friday, making his first start in almost two months after recovering from a knee injury sustained against Barrow in early February.

The 33-year-old returned to the starting XI alongside Bradley Ihionvien, and boss Gavin Cowan was quick to highlight his impact.

Speaking after the win, he said: “The one for me that just stands out, I thought John Marquis was absolutely outstanding.

“I've been in the stands, and I think he's been the brunt of a lot of difficulty in the season.

“I wanted him to come in and be a leader, and really lead that front line. You've got two young lads in there who want to go and do a lot with the ball, but need a bit of direction with that.

“Not only did he do that, I thought he was reliable, he was efficient, he committed to everything that we needed to do. I thought he was the epitome of the whole performance.

“He was excellent with the ball, he was a leader, he was there not to be bullied, and that for me is one of the best performances I've seen from an individual.

“I'm really pleased for him. Understandably, he's the captain, he takes a lot of stick when we're not winning games. But he really stepped up and I know what he's gone through off the field as well.

“I was praying for him to get a goal but we just couldn't get that second one over the line.”

Marquis is Salop’s top scorer this season with six goals in 38 appearances, and is one of several players whose contracts expire this summer.

He signed a two-year deal when he joined the club in July 2024 and scored 12 goals in 43 appearances during his first season.

Speaking ahead of the Tranmere clash, Cowan had welcomed his return, adding: “John's an ultimate professional. He shows what a leader he is.

“He's imperative to players on the pitch, off the pitch. He's our captain and our top goalscorer. We have to remember that as well.

“John's come in the firing line a lot for this football team. He's been brave enough and had broad enough shoulders to be able to take the brunt of a lot of defeats prior to us coming in.

“But he contributes a lot around the football club and he's a really good leader. Selfless would be a word I'd use.”