Ben Smith to fight for Shrewsbury Town's no 1 slot

Boss Graham Turner has moved to bring goalkeeper Ben Smith to Shrewsbury Town - and insists there will be a fair fight for the No 1 shirt.

Smith, 23, was released by Championship club Doncaster Rovers at the end of last season and has agreed a two-year deal at the Greenhous Meadow after a successful trial period.

The 6ft 1ins custodian, who has also had loan spells with Lincoln and Morecambe in the past, is now vying with Chris Neal to start between the posts for the League Two opener at home to Bradford a week tomorrow.

"Ben had really impressed me over the last few weeks in training with his attitude and performances in matches," said Turner, whose side face Tranmere Rovers in their final pre-season friendly tomorrow.

"I see him and Chris Neal vying for that starting place in the side - they are both decent keepers and I think it's going to be a good fight between them.

"There is no recognised No 1 or No 2 - there is still one game and a week's training to go and it is up to them to show what they can do."

Turner has been delighted by the way his side has come along during pre-season training and is looking forward to the final friendly against League One side Tranmere.

Feature

New boy Smith may play some part against the men from Prenton Park, while former Sheffield Wednesday midfielder Sean McAllister - signed earlier this week - is almost certain to feature.

Turner has also not ruled out making one more signing in time for tomorrow's game as the countdown to the new season gathers pace.

"Tomorrow's game should give us the sort of workout that we need in our final preparations," added the Shrewsbury chief.

"We have a challenging start to the season with Bradford followed by Charlton (in the Carling Cup), and we need to be at our best."

Shrewsbury Town's annual Open Day takes place at the Greenhous Meadow on Sunday (11am-3pm).

The squad will be training on the pitch, with fitness coach Tony Ford then putting on an exercise routine for the fans.