League One strugglers Shrewsbury Town have turned to one of their former managers to turn their fortunes around.

Paul Hurst has returned to the Croud Meadow for a second spell in charge at League One's fifth bottom club.

He replaces Matt Taylor, who was sacked on Sunday after a poor run of form that left the Shrews in the relegation battle.

Hurst managed Shrewsbury from 2016 to 2018 and now returns to the club having most recently been in charge at Grimsby Town for a second spell.

He takes charge of a side that is 20th in the table and four points above the drop zone after 28 games.

His first game back as head coach comes at Northampton Town this weekend.

Shrewsbury are ten points above second-bottom Carlisle United in the survival fight. They entertain the Blues at the Croud Meadow on March 16.

News and Star: Hurst was previously with Grimsby TownHurst was previously with Grimsby Town (Image: Richard Parkes)

Hurst, 49, who has also managed Ipswich Town and Scunthorpe United, is now charged with delivering survival with a Shrews squad that includes ex-Carlisle duo Morgan Feeney and Ryan Bowman.

He has joined along with assistant Chris Doig. Shrewsbury director of football Micky Moore told the club website: “It was a tough decision to part company with both Matt Taylor and Marcus Bignot. 

“Both of them did their best to bring results to the football club. 

“But following the game at Peterborough, I sat down with the chairman, and we decided a change was needed for us to move forward. 

“Once that was agreed I presented a shortlist of names to the chairman - following the same procedure as when we appointed Matt. 

“I recommended Paul Hurst would be the standout candidate and the chairman agreed. 

“Having managed against Paul since 2009, we have a long-standing relationship. 

“I have followed his career carefully over the years and the discussions we have held over the last few days have been really positive. 

“I look forward to having a great working relationship with both Paul and Chris going forward. 

“We are delighted they have decided to return to the football club. They both enjoyed an outstanding time here previously and we are looking forward to welcoming them back.” 

Shrewsbury are one of two strugglers to make a managerial change in recent days. On Tuesday night Charlton Athletic sacked Michael Appleton.

Curtis Fleming and Jason Pearce have been placed in interim charge.