Reuben Hazell hopes his experience will lift Shrewsbury Town

New defender Reuben Hazell is confident his experience can help provide one of the missing links in Shrewsbury Town's promotion quest.

As Shrewsbury continue their efforts to finalise the signing of Accrington forward Terry Gornell, Hazell is settling in to life with his new team-mates following his arrival from Oldham last week.

The 32-year-old has made more than 350 career appearances with his former clubs also including Tranmere, Torquay and Chesterfield.

And he is hoping his know-how will benefit Town as they bid to go one better than last season's promotion near miss.

"I spoke to the manager and experience is a key ingredient," said Hazell.

"Maybe that is what Shrewsbury lacked last season which may have got the club automatic promotion so hopefully me and a few of the other guys will be the missing pieces to the jigsaw and go up.

"I was promoted with Torquay from this division so hopefully I can draw on all my experience and all the games I've played.

Hazzell rejected overtures from other clubs and a new contract offer at Oldham to commit to Shrewsbury.

"Oldham offered me a deal there and it was a privilege to captain them but the deal wasn't right and it was time to move on," he added.

"I have to make decisions in football that are right for me and my family.

"I also had an offer from another League Two side but again it wasn't right so I am delighted to join Shrewsbury."

Shrewsbury's new home shirt is set to be launched on Friday, July 29, with the club's open day being held between 10am and 1pm two days later.

By JAMES GARRISON