Shrewsbury Town Names Ainsworth as Head Coach

Gareth Ainsworth has been named head coach of Shrewsbury Town, a club currently at the bottom of League One. This marks the 15th appointment made by chairman Roland Wycherley during his 28-year tenure. The 51-year-old Lancastrian is returning to a managerial role following a year-long absence from the sport. Ainsworth previously managed Wycombe Wanderers for over ten years, guiding them to promotion to the Championship in 2020. He departed in February 2023 to assume leadership at Queens Park Rangers, a team he played for during his career. However, his tenure at Loftus Road concluded after only eight months when he was dismissed. Ainsworth takes over from Paul Hurst, whose second period as head coach concluded last week after seven months. He is joined by his long-time associate, Richard Dobson, who will serve as assistant head coach. Town’s director of football, Micky Moore, stated: “From the moment we started the recruitment process, Gareth and Richard were our number one targets. It is a massive coup for Shrewsbury Town to have them here.” Moore added: “I’ve known Gareth for a long time. He was the stand-out candidate. And he is someone I have always admired for the outstanding work he did at Wycombe.” He continued: “He brings to this football club an enthusiasm and a wealth of knowledge having managed more than 150 games in League One. He is exactly what we need.” Moore expressed confidence, saying: “I’m sure, in time, we will be able to build a football club that will really make the town and our supporters proud.” Roland Wycherley, Shrewsbury’s long-serving chairman, is currently in the process of attempting to relinquish his ownership of the Shropshire club. Ainsworth, who has spent the last 12 months working as a match summariser in the media, represents Wycherley’s 15th, and likely final, appointment during his 28 and a half years leading the club. Shrewsbury Town now marks the third club in Gareth Ainsworth’s managerial career. Chairman Wycherley commented: “I would like to extend a very warm welcome to Gareth and Richard at this difficult time. I wish them every success in their endeavours as they work to restore the feel-good factor to our club.” Shrewsbury currently occupies 24th position in League One, having exchanged places with Burton Albion following their 2-0 loss to the Brewers last weekend. First-team coach Sean Parrish served as caretaker manager for both that match and Tuesday’s 3-0 EFL Trophy defeat against Walsall. The team is slated to resume play on 23 November with a lunchtime home fixture against Birmingham City, who are considered title favourites.