We are thrilled to announce the signing of vastly experienced full-back Mal Benning on a free transfer, with the 29-year-old signing a one-year deal.
A left wing-back by trade, Mal has provided an impressive attacking return in his career, notching 20 goals and 31 assists from defence.
He joins from fellow League One side Port Vale where he was a stalwart in their 2022/23 campaign, featuring in 39 matches of their 46 matches.
Prior to joining the Valiants, the left-back spent six years at Mansfield Town where he made 240 appearances in all competitions. He was nominated for EFL Team of the Season for his contribution to the Stags' play-off season in 2019.
Mal has a whopping 393 senior appearances to his name having also turned out for Walsall and York City in his career.
Head Coach Matt Taylor said:
"Mal has exceptional League One experience having played a large number of games at this level last season and in his career.
"He is a player who can play a number of positions, predominantly left wing-back, and he still had a huge point to prove at this level.
"I am extremely pleased that we managed to secure his signature from Port Vale.
"It's great to have him in the building and I look forward to working closely with him this season."
Mal Benning said:
“I’m buzzing to get it over the line.
"I know Shrewsbury did quite well last year and I’ve come up against them a few times in my career. They’ve always been good to play against so I’m buzzing to be here.
"To meet up with the gaffer and the lads has been ledge.
“My whole career I’ve been a left-back or a left wing-back.
"I like attacking and trying to contribute towards goals, crossing and obviously on the front foot and getting the team attacking – contributing with goals, assists and crosses.
“I like to get involved going forward. It’s always an added bonus being a contributing factor to the team’s success going forwards but obviously, as a left wing-back, you also have your defensive responsibilities which I obviously need to contribute to as well. But I’d like to think going forwards I’ll add some goals and assists.”
