Micky Mellon: Keith Southern has massive role in promotion push
Boss Micky Mellon says Keith Southern has a "massive" role to play in Shrewsbury Town's promotion push as he returns from his suspension heartache.
The 33-year-old is back after a three-match ban for his red card in the 1-0 win at Newport County.
Southern was signed by Mellon in January following a long-term knee injury to fellow midfielder James Wesolowski. But the experienced ex-Blackpool and Huddersfield man was sent off in just his second appearance in blue and amber.
"I saw him at the end of that game and his head was in his hands," said Mellon.
"He was cross because he has come here to play football and be part of a successful team.
"He felt like the whole world was crashing in on him and that he was letting everyone down. I could see how much it hit him so I gave him a call the next day as well, because I knew what he would be like.
"He was very, very flat, but he now has a massive part to play moving on from here. Even while suspended, he keeps people's standards high and he gets stuck in.
"He makes sure everybody trains properly and keeps on improving. I'm really chuffed we've got him back. He's an organiser and a winner."
As well as keeping Southern's spirits high, Mellon has kept a close eye on Wesolowski as he continues his recovery back to full-fitness.
"Weso's a typical Australian who is sunny side up with everything," Mellon said. "I bought him some ropes into training to get his heart rate up and you'd think I'd given him a massive Christmas present.
"He will try and be the best injured player there's ever been at Shrewsbury, that's the type of attitude he has got.
"He will also try to be the best supporter there has ever been.
"Everything he does he tries to be the best at. He's a terrific little fella."
