George Pilkington joins Shrewsbury Town as first-team coach

It is the 36-year-old’s first coaching role after calling time on his 15-year professional playing career as he joins Askey and No.2 John Filan. Former central defender Pilkington, who hails from Rugeley, played a key role as Askey’s Macclesfield stormed to the National League title last season despite being significant underdogs.

The former Port Vale and Luton defender has made more than 600 professional appearances.

Askey believes Pilkington will act as a crucial bridge between players and staff.

“I’ve known George quite a long time from his days at Port Vale. He’s been a really good footballer and good football person,” said boss Askey.

“He’s somebody I have a lot of trust in. He can bridge the gap between the players and the staff having only just finished playing.

“I think he gives us that understanding what it’s still like to be a player. I’m pleased with George and think he’ll be a good asset to Shrewsbury Town.

“It’s important that players have fresh voices and it’s important for myself that you get different opinions.

“As long as we’re all singing off the same hymn sheet, that’s the main thing. I just think it helps to break the training up and is a massive help to me.”

UEFA B Licence coaching badge holder Pilkington, Town’s first first-team coach since Michael Jackson in 2014, admitted he jumped at the chance to follow Askey and turn his hand to coaching.

He said: “I’m overjoyed to join. It’s a fantastic opportunity to work with my previous manager in a new role.

“I’ve got a lot to learn. I’m sure it’ll be a steep learning curve but I’ve met a lot of the staff and they’ve been fantastic. They’ve all said they’re here if I need help and I’m sure I will do.

“He’s an honest, straight-forward guy. I think we’re quite similar. I’m quite quiet and reserved but we’re like-minded.

“’I’ve enjoyed playing for him and I’ve made that transition now to first-team coach. I wouldn’t want to work for anyone else.”

“I’ve still got to find my feet as a coach. Everyone goes about it in a different manner. I’m not a ranter or raver, I’ll just probably try and direct players if I see fit.

“I know there’s good staff here I can learn off, the manager and assistant and take it from there.

“It is a new chapter, yes. I always look forward in life, especially with football, to the next thing and that’s what I’m doing now.

“Hopefully I can bring something positive to the football club.

“Definitely I’ll bring that connection. Hopefully I’ll be able to train a bit, that brings a bit of a different insight being on the pitch with the players.

“You do see different angles and players’ strengths and weaknesses.”