Who could be four key Shrewsbury Town players in the 2026/27 season?

The start of the new season is rapidly approaching - and here we take a look at four players who could prove crucial for Shrewsbury Town.

Will Boyle

The centre-back was instrumental in helping Salop retain their Football League status last term, producing a string of commanding defensive displays while leading by example after taking the captain’s armband.

He appeared to thrive with the added responsibility, and now, having been named club captain, Town will hope for more of the same.

Boyle brings invaluable winning experience after securing two promotions with Wrexham before joining Shrewsbury, while his defensive qualities speak for themselves. He ranked among League Two’s top 10 for aerial duels won last season and was one of the division’s most dominant defenders.

Add in four league goals - making him Town’s joint-top scorer in the division - and Boyle’s influence at both ends of the pitch could be pivotal if Shrewsbury are to enjoy a more successful campaign.

Luca Hoole

Keeping Luca Hoole was one of Shrewsbury Town’s biggest pieces of summer business.

With his contract expiring at the end of last season, many expected the highly-rated defender to move on. Instead, Salop secured a major boost by tying him down to a new deal.

The raft of end-of-season awards he collected were thoroughly deserved after he emerged as one of Town’s standout performers.

Operating on the right side of Gavin Cowan’s back three, Hoole combined composure on the ball with defensive resilience. His consistency will be crucial again this season.

After the ankle issues which disrupted his campaign last term and during pre-season, keeping him fit and available will be a priority for Town, with his importance to the side clear to see.

Isaac Fletcher

Goals were in short supply last season, with Salop finishing as the second-lowest scorers in League Two. Improving that return will be vital, and Isaac Fletcher could play a key role.

The summer signing arrived from relegated Barrow, where he was one of the positives in a difficult campaign, contributing with both goals and assists.

His ‘fox in the box’ qualities were on show when he scored twice in pre-season, while his tall, physical presence offers something different in the number 10 role.

Fletcher looks capable of creating chances, arriving in dangerous areas and adding a goal threat that could prove invaluable for Town this season.

Joe Gbode

Shrewsbury must find a solution to the goalscoring problems of last season. They will hope loanee Joe Gbode can help provide the answer.

The striker has shown plenty of promise during pre-season, bringing energy, aggression and a willingness to run at defenders.

After joining on loan from Luton Town, Gavin Cowan said he wants to help Gbode take the next step in his career and unlock the potential that prompted the Hatters to sign him from Gillingham.

The 20-year-old scored three goals in 15 National League appearances for Woking last season and will now be aiming to establish himself in the EFL.

Cowan identified Town’s attack as a priority for improvement after last season’s struggles, and Gbode has made an encouraging start, scoring twice against FC Isle of Man. If he can carry that form into the league campaign, Shrewsbury will hope he can provide the goals they lacked last season.