Gareth Ainsworth: Shrewsbury Town appoint former Wycombe and QPR boss

“From the moment we started the recruitment process, Gareth and Richard were our number one targets,” Town director of football Micky Moore said. “It’s a big coup for Shrewsbury Town to have them here.

“I have known Gareth for a long time. He was the outstanding candidate. And he is someone I have always admired for the excellent work he did in Wycombe.

“He brings enthusiasm and a wealth of knowledge to this football club having managed more than 150 games in League One. He is exactly what we need.

“I am confident that, over time, we will be able to build a football club that will really make the city and our fans proud.”

Roland Wycherley, Shrewsbury’s long-serving chairman, is in the process of attempting to resign as owner of the Shropshire club.

Ainsworth, who has worked as a media match summarizer for the past 12 months, is Wycherley’s 15th and likely last appointment after 28-and-a-half years at the helm.

“I would like to extend a very warm welcome to Gareth and Richard at this difficult time,” Wycherley said. “I wish them every success in their endeavors as they work to restore the feel-good factor at our club.”

Shrewsbury are 24th in League One, having swapped places with Burton Albion as a result of their 2-0 defeat to the Brewers last weekend.

First-team coach Sean Parrish took interim charge of that and Tuesday’s 3-0 EFL Trophy win at Walsall.

Town are scheduled to return to action on November 23 with a lunchtime home game against title favorites Birmingham City.