Shropshire Star

Shrewsbury Town boss John Askey excited by Fejiri Okenabirhie deal

Boss John Askey believes Shrewsbury Town have signed the best forward in the National League in Feriji Okenabirhrie.

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The London-born 22-year-old is Askey’s first signing since the former Macclesfield manager replaced Paul Hurst.

Okenabirhrie notched 12 goals in the National league for The Daggers and Askey was impressed.

“For me he was the best forward in the National League and he has come on leaps and bounds this year so we are pleased we were able to get him,” said the Shrewsbury boss.

“He’s strong, he’s quick and he’s good on the ball and he gets goals. Hopefully he can make the step up, we will see next season.

“He’s another one who needed to go away and get games under his belt and learn the game. He’s the right age now to come back into league football.

“I like his attitude, he has a really good attitude to go along with his ability.”

Okenabirhie, who penned a two-year deal, played three Football League games for Stevenage before dropping down in search of regular football. And he is convinced making the step up will not be a problem.

“I think it’s the right time to step up and Shrewsbury is the right club to do it,” he said.

“I’ve played in League One before with Stevenage, so it is nice to be back and now I think I’m ready to make an impact.

“I think Shrewsbury is the right fit and I’m raring to go.

“You always have to have belief in your ability. In football things can change really quickly and I found myself in non-league. I just kept working hard on my game.

“Thankfully I have been given an opportunity to be here and hopefully now I can kick on and do really well for Shrewsbury.”