Fin Shrimpton: I've got a really good chance to prove myself

A week on from putting pen to paper on a new deal at the Attis Arena, one of our own sat down with us to discuss his thoughts ahead of the upcoming 2024-25 Vanarama National League North campaign as he attempts to nail down his spot in the Iron’s starting line-up.

Firstly, Shrimpton provided his reaction to be staying with Scunthorpe for a further season: “I’m buzzing. It’s the same feeling as always - it’s my local club and I want to play here so it’s a no brainer.”

Having spent a long period of last season on loan with fellow National League North side Spennymoor Town, Shrimpton commented on his time with the Moors saying: “Although I didn’t really want to go out on loan it probably was a move that worked out better for me as I went out and actually played games, I really enjoyed it and it felt good to be winning games.”

“It was obviously the same league, so it has given me more experience playing week in week out and playing those 90 minutes in most games which has left me in a better position.”

When referring to interest he had elsewhere before agreeing to stay for a further year, the hometown hero commented by saying: “I guess there will have been interest, but at the end of the day Scunthorpe has always been my number one priority, so the opportunity to stay here was an absolute no brainer.”

The change of management in the club has been a big talking point of late, and when questioned on the conversations new first team manager Andy Butler had held with Shrimpton ahead of a new contract, he answered; “I’d spoken to Buts (Andy Butler) a few times, and everything he said to me appeared to benefit me as a player, and he made me feel as though the ball was in my court, so I can’t wait to get started.

“I say I can’t wait, but I can for pre-season as when I spoke to the gaffer, he mentioned wood runs and stuff like that so it’s going to be something a bit different, but I think It’ll be enjoyable and will get team spirit high ahead of the season.”

With the club's retained list now finalised, Shrimpton commented on how crucial it is that the core of the Iron squad that has remained together after last season’s play-off heart break “It’s massive that the core of the squad has stayed together, and although it was a tough one to take last season we go again and push for our goal.

“I’d like to say I come back every season in good shape and I always want to prove that I can play, this season is even more up to me than before as this year I’ve got a really good chance to prove myself.”