Former Crewe Alexandra captain Matt Tootle believes it was “the right time” to leave the club, after yesterday signing for fellow League One side Shrewsbury Town.
The 24-year-old spent an overall 16 years at Gresty Road, racking up over 224 appearances and scoring three goals. He made his senior debut for the club in November 2009 away to Northampton Town.
Following his exit, right-back Tootle thanked the club for what they’ve done for him.
Speaking to Shrewsbury’s official club website, he spoke of the “amazing times” he had with Crewe, and that it is a “very emotional time” for him.
However, Tootle felt that his “time is up” with the Railwaymen, and that it’s “time for someone else to build a career” as Tootle himself did.
And finally, the defender added that he believes it was “the right time to go” and excited at the prospect of “a new challenge”.
A seventh summer signing for Shrewsbury
The signing of Matt Tootle has brought the summer arrival tally at Greenhous Meadow to seven.
The full-back follows the signings of Mat Sadler, Martin Woods, Abu Ogogo, Shaun Whalley and Darren McKnight, from Rotherham, Ross County, Dagenham and Redbridge, Luton Town and Barnsley respectively.
Tootle told the Shrewsbury club website that it was “an easy decision” once he knew the Shropshire outfit were interested in his services.
He added that he is “looking forward” to playing in a team that is full of experience and is hoping that it will be a “successful period” for him personally.
Shrews continue to build ahead of the new season
Manager Micky Mellon’s signings so far this window highlight the club’s ambition as they look to make their mark on League One this season, following their automatic promotion from League Two last Campaign.
With the Football League fixtures being released this morning, which gave the Shrews an opening day home tie against Championship relegated Millwall, Mellon’s charges have a tough first assignment.
But with the quality of signings so far, they will quietly believe that it could be a successful season for the club.
