New boy Alex Gilliead wants to help Shrewsbury Town enjoy a repeat of last season

The 22-year-old checked into Montgomery Waters Meadow on a two-year deal today after leaving boyhood club Newcastle United.

He has caught the eye during previous Football League loans with Bradford, Luton and Carlisle but is now ready to impress after signing a permanent deal.

Gilliead admitted that last season's impressive Town campaign caught the eye and, after being attracted to Town following talks with boss John Askey, wants to show that their run to the League One play-off final was not a flash in the pan.

"I want to replicate the form of last year in a team that's winning every week. We've got to go out there and play with freedom," he said.

"That's the main thing for me as a player, to go and play with freedom and get on with it. As a team we want to do well and climb the leagues.

"People will want to say last year was a one-off but we want to prove them wrong and be up there again."

Gilliead, who joined Newcastle as a 15-year-old, added: "It's the first big move of my career, it had to be the right one. I'd been looking at a few offers I'd had but I thought this was the most appealing one.

"One that fitted me right with (Shrewsbury) coming off the back of a great season last year, the club's looking to do it again and I want to be part of that and show everyone what I can and start my career with the best club I can do with.

"I spoke to the manager last week and he was similar to my views in what he wanted to do and how I wanted to play.

"I came down yesterday and had a look at the facilities. I thought they were top drawer, the training ground and the gym is up there with one of the best in the league.

"The facilities are very good, they try to do everything professionally and that was something that attracted us."

Gilliead has already played 94 games in the Football League across four loans. But the right-footed wide man – who naturally plays on the right but can play on the left – still feels he has much to learn.

He netted twice in 48 outings last season and wants to improve on his goals and assists.

"I'm still young in terms of a football age. I'm 22 with a lot to learn and improve on," he continued. "I feel under the manager and with the lads that I'll be able to improve and bring it to the team.

"I was at Bradford and have had two other loans before that. I've had my fair share of games and I know what it's about.

"I know what the demands are on the body. I want to come and show everyone what I can do.

"Speaking over the summer, speaking to various different people in and out of the game and goals is something I need to improve on in my own game.

"Goals and assists, they'll be something I'm really working on to bring to my game."