Gareth Ainsworth explains the reasons behind Charles Sagoe Jr's departure from Shrewsbury

The club announced on Monday the 20-year-old loanee had gone back to north London after making 18 appearances for Town in the first part of the season. 

Sagoe Jr never got going in his time in Shropshire - starting just five League One matches. 

And the Salop head coach paid tribute to the youngster's character in his first press conference since his departure. 

"Charles, what a great lad," he said. "He had a really, really good attitude. He listened, and he wanted to learn.

"I just felt that for his development, which is why he was here, it would be better for him to either pick up more games at Arsenal, or get another loan somewhere else where he's going to play in a team that probably plays a bit more to his strengths. 

"In a relegation battle, which Charles didn't ask to be involved in, it was tough for him, very tough. 

"As a new manager coming in, I felt it for the best. It was totally my decision. 

"I felt the best for his development probably wouldn't be here. 

"Partly because of the sporadic games he was getting and the situation we're in.

"That's one of those things in football. But what I will say about the character is I can't speak highly enough of what a great guy he was. 

"I'm sure he will go on to have a great career. And the way he conducted himself, he's a credit to Arsenal and his family. I wish him all the best."

Town have made one signing under Ainsworth - Jamal Blackman was brought in as a free agent before the game against Wigan before Christmas. 

But Shrewsbury are still waiting to make their first addition of the winter transfer window. 

And the boss says they are working hard to make progress with regards to incomings. 

He said: "We've got meetings, recruitment meetings all the time going on.

"There are players out there that we feel would improve us as a squad. But again, it's all factors trying to get them in. And that's tough, it really is.

"Especially quite early in the window where we are. Players will be looking around thinking, just hang fire on that one a little bit and see what comes later in the window. 

"Believe me, we're working hard behind the scenes.

"It is not as easy as I want him, let's go and get him. There are loads of factors involved in there.

"I don't know how many windows I've been through now, but there'll be probably 30-plus windows I've had as a manager.

"So, as I say, some of my best deals have been at the end of the window when you find an absolute gem has become available and everyone's done their business."