Ryan Sears signs new two-year deal with Shrewsbury

The academy graduate, who was snapped up by Town as a 14-year-old, has made 10 appearances this season after making his debut against Bristol Rovers in September.

And the 20-year-old – who put in a man of the match display against Wolves in the FA Cup back in February – now wants to cement his place in Sam Ricketts’ side.

“To be offered a two-year deal with the club I’ve been at since I was 14 is an unreal feeling but it’s now time to push on,” Sears said.

“This year has probably been one of my best years with training and games I’ve played in.

“The gaffer, Coyney (coach Danny Coyne) and Eric (coach Eric Ramsey) have all picked up on me improving so I think that recognition got me the contract.

“Shrewsbury is a really big club for me personally. To get my first contract was amazing and now to get another offer was even better.

“The hard work starts now. I want to be playing regularly next season which is a massive ask but if I have a good pre-season anything can happen.”

Sears initially joined Shrewsbury as a midfielder.

And he is grateful for Town developing him into the player he is today.

“When I came in at 14, I wasn’t really a centre half or a right back, I was more of a midfielder,” he added.

“I played my first game as a centre half and that was that I stayed in defence and I’ve seen massive progress every year.

“With me being a homegrown player I think that’s a huge credit to the club.”