Former Queens Park Rangers manager Gareth Ainsworth is reportedly the top candidate to fill the managerial vacancy at Shrewsbury Town.
The League One side has been without a manager for over a week since Paul Hurst’s departure, and local sources, including the Shropshire Star, indicate that Ainsworth, 51, is “in pole position” to take up the role. However, a formal agreement has yet to be reached, and Ainsworth is said to be keen on bringing his trusted assistant, Richard Dobson, on board if he accepts the job.
Shrewsbury’s search for a new manager comes at a crucial juncture in their season, with the team looking to stabilise their League One campaign. Ainsworth, who was dismissed from his position at QPR in October last year after 28 games, has been out of management since. His brief stint in the Championship with QPR marked the end of a 10-year association with Wycombe Wanderers, where he cemented his reputation with 550 games at the helm.
A Career Rooted in the Lower Leagues
Ainsworth’s managerial credentials were built on a solid playing career that saw him become a fan favourite at several clubs. Starting his professional journey at Preston North End (PNE), Ainsworth’s tenure spanned across three separate stints with the Lancashire side. Initially joining from Northwich Victoria in 1992, he was brought back by then-manager John Beck and went on to score 15 goals across 100 appearances for PNE.
His career also took him to clubs such as Lincoln City, Port Vale, and Wimbledon before his long-serving roles at Wycombe Wanderers and QPR. Known for his passionate playing style and commitment, Ainsworth remained a well-loved figure in lower-league football, both as a player and manager.
After transitioning into management, Ainsworth’s leadership style resonated with fans and players alike, marked by his focus on teamwork and resilience. His potential move to Shrewsbury is likely to bring a similar ethos to a club looking to revitalise their season.
If appointed, Ainsworth will inherit a Shrewsbury side in need of tactical stability. The club currently finds itself in the middle of the League One standings, and fans will be hoping that Ainsworth’s approach—grounded in lower-league experience—can provide the consistency required for an upward push.
Writer’s View
Ainsworth’s track record with Wycombe Wanderers makes him an intriguing fit for Shrewsbury Town. Known for building cohesive squads, he would bring much-needed experience and tactical stability to a team that’s been lacking in recent weeks. His familiarity with the league could give Shrewsbury an edge, especially if he’s able to instil the grit and resilience that characterised his Wycombe side.
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