In this penultimate edition of our series profiling the new teams entering League Two for the 2025–26 season, we turn the spotlight on Shrewsbury Town, who return to the fourth tier following relegation from League One.
After a challenging season in League One, Shrewsbury Town drop into League Two with a point to prove. A difficult run of form and managerial changes saw the Shrews finish in the bottom four, but with a strong foundation and loyal support, they’ll be looking to bounce back quickly.
Here’s everything you need to know about Shrewsbury Town ahead of the big kick-off on August 2.
A Brief History
Founded in 1886, Shrewsbury Town have been a regular fixture in the EFL for decades. The Shropshire club has often hovered between the third and fourth tiers, with memorable promotions in 1979, 1994, 2004, 2012, and 2015, the latter under Micky Mellon as they secured a return to League One.
Nicknamed The Shrews, the club is known for its community connection and solid footballing identity. One of their most iconic achievements came in the FA Cup, when they famously knocked out Everton in 2003, a classic moment in modern club history.
Shrewsbury moved to their current home, the Croud Meadow, in 2007, having spent nearly a century at Gay Meadow. The modern stadium reflects the club’s ambitions, and with recent League One experience, they’ll see 2025–26 as an opportunity to rebuild and rise again.
Who’s the Boss?
Michael Appleton took the reins at Shrewsbury Town in March 2025 and will lead the Shrews into the 2025–26 League Two campaign, aiming to restore confidence and build momentum following their relegation from League One.
Appleton brings a wealth of managerial experience, having held roles at clubs including Oxford United, Lincoln City, and Blackpool. Known for his clear tactical structure, focus on possession-based football, and ability to develop young talent, he’ll be looking to instil consistency and discipline into the squad.
His standout spell came at Oxford, where he guided the club to back-to-back EFL Trophy finals and secured promotion to League One in 2016. With a proven track record at this level and above, Appleton’s appointment signals ambition and a desire to return to the third tier swiftly.
Key Players
As Shrewsbury Town prepare for life back in League Two, their hopes of a quick return to the third tier will rest heavily on the experience and quality of several standout players.
John Marquis brings proven pedigree to the Shrews' front line. A seasoned striker with over 100 EFL goals to his name, Marquis has enjoyed prolific spells with Doncaster Rovers, Portsmouth, and Lincoln City. The 32-year-old will be a vital source of goals as Shrewsbury look to mount a promotion push. His leadership and know-how at this level will also be crucial in guiding a reshaped squad.
In midfield, Sam Clucas represents an eye-catching new addition. The former Hull City and Stoke City man boasts Premier League experience and a cultured left foot. Comfortable operating as a deep-lying playmaker or in a more advanced role, Clucas offers composure, vision, and a touch of class.
Together, Marquis and Clucas bring a wealth of experience and technical quality that should help set the standard as Michael Appleton’s side looks to compete at the top end of the division.
The Stadium
The Croud Meadow has been Shrewsbury Town’s home since 2007. With a capacity of around 9,800, the all-seater stadium offers excellent views from all angles and a compact, modern design that helps generate a strong atmosphere.
Whether under the floodlights or in the thick of a Saturday clash, Shrewsbury fans are known for their passionate support, and the Meadow has proved a tough ground to visit for many League One and League Two sides over the years.
Head-To-Head Record
Newport County and Shrewsbury Town have a long-standing history, first meeting in 1951. In total, the two clubs have faced off 28 times, with Shrewsbury holding the edge with 15 wins compared to Newport’s 7, while 6 games have ended in draws.
Last Time Out
The last competitive meeting between Newport County and Shrewsbury Town came during the 2014–15 League Two campaign, when the sides met at Rodney Parade in January 2015.
On that day, it was the Shrews who came out on top with a 1-0 victory. A goal from substitute Jean-Louis Akpa Akpro in a 77th-minute was enough to give Shrewsbury the 3 points, which would aid in their promotion campaign that season.
As Newport County prepare for another League Two campaign, attention now turns to the fixture release on June 26, when the next meeting with Shrewsbury Town will be revealed.
Missed our previous spotlights? Check out our features on Barnet, Oldham Athletic, Crawley Town and Cambridge United.