Shrewsbury Town midfielder Taylor Perry opens up on his tricky 12 months

The Shrewsbury Town midfielder scored the first goal and made the second in his side's 2-1 win at the New York Stadium against Rotherham. 

But the last 12 months have not always been straightforward for the 23-year-old former Wolves man. After being signed in 2023, Perry featured regularly under Matt Taylor. 

But he fell out of favour when Paul Hurst was made head coach just over a year ago. Since Ainsworth has been in charge in Shropshire he has come back into the fold more regularly. 

"It has been tough if I am going to be honest," Perry said. "It is part of the game though isn't it. 

"I have just got to keep working hard and believe in my own ability. That is what I will do. I will never stop believing in my own ability. When I have had my chance, I have grasped it. 

"On Saturday, I took my chance and managed to get a goal and get an assist - that is all I can do. 

"I want to continue that now, and keep helping the team however I can with goals and assists." 

His goal, which was his first of the season, and his first since his strike against Wycombe in December 2023, came after John Marquis' effort was saved by Rotherham keeper Dillon Phillips.

The rebound fell to Perry on the edge of the area, and he placed it into the corner.

After the Millers had equalised he then turned provider when he crossed for Marquis to score Town's winner which now leaves them four points from safety in the third tier of English football.

So far this campaign Perry has started 10 League One matches - seven of those have come since Ainsworth was appointed as Salop boss back in November.

But he has been in and out of the team of late too.

"I was out of the team for a few weeks, which is tough as a footballer when you feel you can bring so much to a team and you cannot show that," he continued. "I have been working hard.

"I have kept my head down and will always help the team in any way possible. 

"I feel like on Saturday, I got my rewards. But I have to help the team get the three points, and it is all about the team. 

"It has been a long time coming, to be honest with the goal. I am really pleased."

Perry will hope to make his third successive start on Tuesday night when Town are back in action as they make the trip to Reading.

Salop will be looking to make it three successive victories as they continue to fight for survival.