Liam Lawrence: Bristol Rovers sign Shrewsbury captain

Liam Lawrence has played 538 senior games for eight different clubs

Bristol Rovers have signed Shrewsbury Town club captain Liam Lawrence.

Lawrence, 34, has played 23 times for Shrewsbury this season, having joined them from Barnsley in July 2014.

The former Republic of Ireland midfielder, who won 15 caps for his country, started his career at Mansfield and has also played for Sunderland, Stoke and Portsmouth.

"Bristol Rovers asked about Liam as he's not playing regularly," said Shrewsbury boss Micky Mellon.

"We put it to Liam and he wanted to speak to Rovers. After that, he has decided to go and join them.

"It's no secret that he's one of our higher earners so it frees up some funds for me to try and strengthen the group.

"I believe his signing is a fantastic coup for the club," said Rovers boss Darrell Clarke. "To bring in someone of his calibre, on a contract until the end of the season with no fee involved, is massive."

All change at Shrewsbury

Shrewsbury, 20th in League One, just a point away from danger, are in the middle of a mid-season overhaul.

Top scorer James Collins has been loaned to League Two promotion challengers Northampton Town, while fellow striker Tyrone Barnett has joined Southend.

Shrewsbury have already made one loan signing, bringing back defender Jack Grimmer on loan from Fulham, as well as re-signing striker Andy Mangan from Tranmere Rovers.

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