Martin Woods was Shrewsbury's top target

The creative schemer signed a two-year contract at Greenhous Meadow yesterday, after opting against extending his stay with Scottish Premier League outfit Ross County.

And Williams has revealed the 29-year-old, who has twice won promotion from League One with Doncaster Rovers, was one of the key targets identified by boss Micky Mellon, as looks to strengthen his squad for the 2015-16 campaign.

Williams said: "Woods is a player Micky identified first up. He is left-footed so he adds balance to the midfield. He is a very good player who has got a great delivery.

"The most important thing, though, is that he has played at this level before and has been successful.

"I can't understate just how important it is to have players who have played in League One or above. It's a massive step up and I think people under-estimate the difference.

"He's also a character who will be popular in the dressing room, with the staff and with supporters.

"He travelled all the way down from Scotland and couldn't wait to sign and I think he will turn out to be an excellent addition for us."

Meanwhile, Woods himself hopes he can draw on his past experience and help guide Shrewsbury's younger players – many of whom will be playing regularly on the League One stage for the first time.

He said: "I can't believe I'm saying it, but I'm at that age now where I'm one of the experienced players. I'd really like to be able to help some of the younger lads on and off the pitch.

"On the field, if I can see something that is happening then I will talk and do what I can to help them out.

"I know Liam Lawrence does that as well, so hopefully the two of us can both be a positive influence of the team."