Michael Jackson has been appointed the manager of Shrewsbury Town until the end of the season following a period in charge as caretaker manager. Jackson played for the club between 2008 and 2010 and, after injury ended his career, has served as a coach since then, including one other caretaker spell in charge.

The club said it reviewed an extensive list of candidates but the chairman Roland Wycherley said: "It was clear Michael was the closest match to the profile the board set for the position. He is certainly highly qualified holding all professional coaching badges including a Uefa Pro Licence."

The former Crewe Alexandra, Bury, Preston North End, Tranmere Rovers and Blackpool defender, Jackson, was placed in temporary charge of the club on 22 January following the departure of Graham Turner, who left the club bottom of League One after a defeat to MK Dons. Since taking over, Jackson has failed to steer the club to a win but they have overtaken Stevenage at the foot of the table.

Shrewsbury Town believe the club has "regained some pride and passion" following Jackson's caretaker spell in charge and backed his positive approach at a time "when it is all too easy to focus on the current league position." The Shrewbury Town board said it was a unanimous decision to place Jackson in permanent charge.