Shrewsbury Town head coach Michael Appleton has declared his confidence that the club will “outperform” its League Two budget this season, as he prepares for his first full campaign in charge following relegation.
Appleton, who was officially appointed prior to the final match of a bruising 2024/25 campaign, is tasked with overseeing a significant rebuild at the Croud Meadow. With eight players departing in the summer and several new arrivals already through the door, he is optimistic that the new-look squad can exceed expectations.
“The only expectations I’ve placed on myself – and I’m comfortable making a statement – is that we’ll outperform our budget,”
Appleton said.
“It’s something I’ve always done at every single football club I’ve been at. Whatever the budget is at the start of the season, I’m very, very confident that we’ll outperform that.”
That bullish statement sets the tone for a campaign that begins with a home clash against National League play-off winners Bromley, followed by a trip to Prenton Park to take on Tranmere Rovers.
Pre-Season Fixtures and Preparations
Shrewsbury’s pre-season plans are already under way, with the squad returning to training last week. Appleton’s side will warm up with a behind-closed-doors match against Stoke City before taking on non-league opponents Leamington, AFC Telford United, and Kidderminster Harriers. The pre-season schedule concludes with more high-profile fixtures against League One outfit Bolton Wanderers and Premier League side Burnley.
Despite his proven record in management, Appleton admitted that pre-season is not his favourite part of the job.
“I’m not a great fan of pre-season, to be honest. The games are important, fitness is important. But I do like the competitiveness of when the league starts,” he said.
“It can’t come quick enough for me. But I understand there’s a role to play with pre-season – from a technical, tactical, and physical perspective – so that come the first week in August we’re in strength rather than weakness.”
With new arrivals like Sam Stubbs and Tom Sang already generating excitement, and more signings expected, Appleton appears to be assembling a squad capable of competing at the top end of League Two despite the financial constraints that come with relegation.
Writer’s View
Michael Appleton’s confidence could be exactly what Shrewsbury Town need after a turbulent relegation. His belief in outperforming the budget speaks to his experience and ambition, and while money might be tight, smart recruitment and early preparation could prove key.
The early focus on fitness, competition, and clarity of expectations suggests this is a manager who knows how to build from the ground up. If the blend of youth, experience, and tactical discipline comes together, Salop could surprise a few in League Two.
