Josh Ruffels on the Shrewsbury Town role he is ‘ready for’ this season

Josh Ruffels is determined to play a key role at Shrewsbury Town this season.

The 32-year-old was handed the vice-captaincy by boss Gavin Cowan ahead of the new campaign.

And Ruffels, who signed a new contract to remain at Town this summer, wants to make an impact and use his experience to help guide the club’s youngsters.

Asked if he feels he has a key role to play this season, Ruffels said: “Yes, definitely. I feel like I can influence the team a lot more.

“Even with the vice-captain role, I know it’s not a massive role, but it does show that there’s intent to play that important role in the team and something that I’m ready for.

“We’ve got a lot of young lads that probably need a little bit of help at times and that’s something that I need to help them with.”

The vice-captaincy is a new responsibility for Ruffels, who has made more than 350 league appearances across the Football League.

He said Cowan had spoken to him about taking on more responsibility over the summer.

“We had small conversations about it in the summer,” Ruffels added.

“I’m at that age now where I can be more of a leader and it’s something that I’ve not experienced in football yet, and he agreed with that. It’s a real honour and hopefully I can do it justice.”

Ruffels steps into the role previously held by Will Boyle, who was appointed club captain this summer following the departure of the previous skipper.

The pair previously played together at Huddersfield Town and Ruffels is relishing their new responsibilities.

“I’ve known him for a while, he’s a great captain and a great leader,” Ruffels added.

“I’m more than pleased that he’s the main captain. We’ve got a good relationship and we talk on and off the field. It’s been good.”

Ruffels believes the pair can bring different qualities to their respective roles.

He said: “Probably leading by example on the pitch. I think Will can talk for England, so I’ll let him do that.

“I’m more of a lead by example. I love doing lots of the gym stuff and living right. If that can bode well for the young lads, that’s good for me.”