Shrewsbury Town sign Preston defender Conor McLaughlin

Shrewsbury have strengthened their squad by signing Preston full-back Conor McLaughlin on a two-month loan.

McLaughlin, who has two Northern Ireland Under-21 caps, has recovered from a broken leg suffered last season.

"I'm fit again and need to play more first-team football," the 20-year-old told BBC Radio Shropshire.

He has been tracked by Shrewsbury for some time, including his last game in Preston reserves' win over Manchester City in Carlos Tevez's comeback game.

"He's a utility player, he can play in either full-back position, he can play in midfield as well and he likes to go forward," said Shrewsbury boss Graham Turner.

"We've got a strong squad - but I felt we were a little short on the full-back area - especially with Joe Jacobson being injured."

McLaughlin hailed the standard of League Two football: "I played twice against Southend in the FA Cup this season and they were strong opposition, and I've checked out Shrewsbury's form.

"They're playing well, and I'd love to be part of their promotion party."

As for playing against Tevez, he added: "That was an experience in itself. We arrived at their (Manchester City's) training ground, and there were cameramen hiding in the bushes, all sorts.

"And we won 3-1 and should've won by more - it was quite something."