Sam Proctor makes Shrewsbury Town pledge after completing loan move

New Shrewsbury Town goalkeeper Sam Proctor has backed himself to deliver when it matters most after completing his loan move.

The 19-year-old became Salop’s latest summer arrival when he joined on a season-long loan from Aston Villa last Friday.

He arrives determined to make an immediate impact and provide strong competition for fellow goalkeeper Will Brook.

Describing himself, Proctor said: “I’d say I’m quite the character. I’m quite brave. I’ve got a good personality. I can step up in big moments for the team.

“I feel like I can help the team hopefully get promotion and go up, that’s the plan.”

Proctor arrives with an impressive reputation from Villa's academy, where he enjoyed a memorable treble-winning campaign, lifting the FA Youth Cup, the Under-18 Premier League South title and the Under-18 Premier League national final.

Now, he is determined to make his mark in the Football League under Shrewsbury boss Gavin Cowan.

Proctor added: “I spoke to the gaffer a few times. Everything that he's told me and said to me about the club was a good sign for me to come here.

“Great fan base and everything. It was the right place for me and not too far from where I live either. So everything connected nicely.”

The 19-year-old made his first appearances for Town during their trip to the Isle of Man, featuring for 45 minutes in each of Salop's two matches.

Proctor is also expected to make his first home appearance when Town welcome Everton Under-21s to the Croud Meadow tonight (7.30pm kick-off).

After rising through the ranks at Villa, Proctor has been involved with the first team, training alongside and learning from the likes of World Cup winner Emiliano Martinez. That experience has been complemented by an impressive international pedigree, having represented England extensively at youth level from Under-16s to Under-20s.

The goalkeeper believes his exposure to senior football has played an important role in his development.

“I feel like I've come out of my shell a lot more as I’ve gone into senior football. I feel like it's been needed.

“I've come out of my shell and integrated with the group quite nicely. I think that's going to help me nicely this season, coming with the group and getting around the lads.”

Proctor became Town's eighth summer recruit and their second loan signing ahead of the new season, with competitive action beginning in less than three weeks.

Looking ahead to the campaign, the goalkeeper shared his excitement with supporters.

He said: “It's going to be a big season. Can't wait for it.”