Gareth Ainsworth makes shock return to management over a year after being sacked by QPR

GARETH AINSWORTH has sealed a stunning return to management with Shrewsbury.

The 51-year-old’s last job was with Queens Park Rangers.

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Gareth Ainsworth has sealed a shock return to management with Shrewsbury[/caption]

He was sacked from the position more than a year ago having been in the job since February 2023.

But he – along with long-term assistant Richard Dobson – is now back in management with League One Shrewsbury.

A club statement said: “Shrewsbury Town are thrilled to announce the appointment of Gareth Ainsworth as our new head coach.

“The 51-year-old arrives in Shropshire having previously enjoyed spells in charge of Wycombe and QPR.

“A former midfielder, Ainsworth is also a cult hero for the performances he put in as a player at Preston North End, Wimbledon, QPR, Port Vale and Lincoln.

“He joins Town with his long-standing number two Richard Dobson – who has been appointed Town’s assistant head coach.”

Shrewsbury sit bottom of the division with just two wins and two draws from 15 league games this season.

Director of football Micky Moore said: “I’m delighted to welcome Gareth and Richard to the football club. I think it is a massive coup for Shrewsbury Town to have them here.

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“From the moment we started the recruitment process, Gareth and Richard were our number one targets.

“I’ve known Gareth for a long time. He was the standout candidate. And he is someone I have always admired for the outstanding work he did at Wycombe.

“He brings to this football club an enthusiasm and a wealth of knowledge having managed more than 150 games in League One. He is exactly what we need.

“I’m sure, in time, we will be able to build a football club that will really make the town and our supporters proud.”

Shrewsbury chairman Roland Wycherley MBE added: “On behalf of the board of directors, all supporters and everyone connected to Shrewsbury Town – I would like to extend a very warm welcome to Gareth and Richard at this difficult time.

“I wish them every success in their endeavours as they work to restore the feel-good factor to our club.”

Shrewsbury sacked former manager Paul Hurst 10 days ago following the Shrews’ elimination from the FA Cup at the hands of Salford.

The club fell to a 3-0 defeat to Walsall in their last match on Tuesday in the Football League Trophy, leaving them bottom of Group I in the competition.

They were due to play Reading away this weekend, but the match has been postponed due to international call-ups – which has left some clubs furious.

It means Ainsworth’s first game in charge will be at Croud Meadow when his team host Birmingham.

Before QPR, Ainsworth – who fronts his own rock band – had managed Wycombe for 11 years, having taken over as a caretaker player-manager in 2012 before retiring from playing in 2013 to focus on coaching.