Goalkeeper Steve Arnold signs a two-year deal at Shrewsbury Town
Shrewsbury Town are delighted to announce the signing of Goalkeeper Steve Arnold on a two-year deal.
The 6ft 5inch stopper joins the club on a free transfer having left Barrow in the summer.
Steve spent the second half of last season with Barrow, making 17 appearances, and he can’t wait for his chance back in the EFL.
“I’m buzzing to be fair”, admitted Arnold.
“I’ve been here a week now, played two games, got the call from the Gaffer yesterday and like I say I’m buzzing to be here and I just want to get going properly now.
“It’s always nice when you go in somewhere and make a bit of an impact. I’d like to think I’ve done well, I’ve done enough for the Gaffer to offer me a deal and I’m looking forward to getting started now.”
Arnold has been on trial with the club for the last week, featuring against Bristol City and Burnley, and he believes the clean-sheet against Burnley helped his chances of earning a deal.
“They had some top players playing for them and we got a little bit under the cosh in the first 30 minutes which benefited me in a way because it showed what I can do”, Steve said.
“I was delighted to come away with a 1-0 win and a clean-sheet too. I know it’s pre-season but it all bodes well going into the first game of the season.
“I wouldn’t say going on trial is nice, you get that new school feeling, but you ease your way in and I feel quite settled now, and hopefully it will only get better.”
With his height, Steve has all the attributes required of a League One goalkeeper and at 28 he believes he can still improve.
“My whole career I’ve loved coming for crosses, commanding my box, being a real presence, letting the defenders know I’m there and the attackers know I’m there”, Arnold said.
“We’ve all come to be the extra player now on the pitch and I’m getting there with that as well, so it’s just about being that all-round goalkeeper and being that calming influence at the back.
“Coming in with Coyney has been brilliant. It’s the first time in a good few years that I’ve had a goalkeeper coach day in, day out and just seeing the difference in me in the first week has been quality, and I’m really looking forward to working with him and Cam (Gregory).”