Martin happy to see former Don Wilbraham impress at Shrewsbury

Russell Martin is not surprised by how Aaron Wilbraham has taken to football management - albeit in a temporary capacity - at Shrewsbury Town.

The former MK Dons striker stepped into the breach when Shrews boss Steve Cotterill was hospitalised last month with Covid-19, taking charge in his absence. Since then, Shrewsbury have won three, lost three and drawn one as they have edged away from the drop zone up to 17th in the League One table.

Wilbraham made over 200 appearances for Dons during six seasons in Milton Keynes, and remains the club's second leading scorer with 57.

Martin and Wilbraham played together at Norwich between 2010 and 2012, as did Dons midfielder Andrew Surman, and it was Wilbraham's people skills that helped him standout according to the Dons boss.

"He was someone who got on brilliantly with everyone in the dressing room," he said. "Whether it was an 18-year-old, because he was like an 18-year-old at 30-odd, or whether it was with an experienced player, we could chat about family and life. He's a top guy, he was great to have in a dressing room.

"I can see why Steve would want to have him. I'm really pleased he's got the opportunity to do it and it looks like he's grasped it and has coped really well.

"It'll be good to see the big man, but hopefully we can come away with the points."