Chris Neal kept goal in Shrewsbury Town's first five games this season

Shrewsbury Town have opted not to make on-loan Bristol Rovers keeper Steve Phillips' stay permanent following Chris Neal's return to full fitness.

Neal, who has been out since August with a groin injury, proved his fitness in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy defeat at Accrington on 20 October.

And, after two games on the bench, he is due to return for Saturday's FA Cup first round home tie with Staines Town.

Phillips, 31, has quickly made another loan move, joining Crewe Alexandra.

In his two months on loan at the Prostar, Phillips made 11 appearances for Shrewsbury, conceding just 10 goals, signing off with Saturday's 1-1 draw at Meadow Lane against Notts County.

"He's been outstanding," Town boss Paul Simpson told BBC Shropshire. "We've got to thank him for what he's done.

"But I believe we've got an outstanding keeper in Chris Neal as well, and I'm delighted we've got him fit again."

Shrewsbury also have two other keepers, Glyn Garner and Andreas Arestidou, on their books.

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