Shrewsbury Town: Michael Appleton succeeds Gareth Ainsworth as boss

Shrewsbury Town have appointed Michael Appleton as their new head coach until the end of the season.

The 49-year-old former Manchester United midfielder replaces Gareth Ainsworth, who left to take over at League Two side Gillingham.

This will be the eighth appointment of Appleton’s 14-year managerial career after spells at Portsmouth, Blackpool, Blackburn Rovers, Leicester City, Lincoln City, Oxford United, where he earned his first promotion, and Charlton Athletic.

He will work with assistant head coach Richard O’Donnell, who was also with him at Lincoln, Blackpool and Charlton.

Town director of football Micky Moore said: “It’s been a difficult seven days.

“But once Gareth Ainsworth made the decision to leave, it was important we acted quickly to find the right man to guide us through the remainder of the season.