Gareth Ainsworth explains the reasons behind Tommi O'Reilly's departure from Shrewsbury Town

O'Reilly was recalled from his loan move in Shropshire by Aston Villa just three hours before Shrewsbury's derby game against Wrexham on Thursday - with the 21-year-old immediately joining League Two side MK Dons.

The attacking midfielder made 18 appearances for Salop in total - 12 in League One - but had not featured since the 2-2 draw at Wigan before Christmas.

And when asked why O'Reilly's time in Shropshire had come to an end Ainsworth said: "Tommi is a great footballer.

"Really, really talented footballer, but for me, he needs to play in a really high possession side that can get him on the ball in great positions.

"Once you get that boy on the ball, he's phenomenal. We're not quite that team yet where we can dominate possession and get it into the number 10’s feet and play total football. 

"We're not there yet, and so I think the reason Aston Villa recalled him was he wasn't getting enough game time. Totally respect that.

"But he's one hell of a player. So when he goes off elsewhere and does really well, that's brilliant, but we didn't fail with him. 

"It's just that I don't think that the way we are in this relegation battle and the systems I'm playing at the moment suited Tommi, and that happens sometimes as well.

"Same as Charles. But like I say, looking forward, exciting times. I'm going to try and get some new players through the door."

As far as incomings go Shrewsbury have signed Callum Stewart from non-league side Leamington, and they are interested in signing Dominic Gape from Eastleigh.