Wolverhampton Wanderers head of football development and recruitment Kevin Thelwell has insisted that it was the "right time" to recall Liam McAlinden from his loan spell with Shrewsbury Town.

McAlinden scored three times in nine appearances during his time at Greenhous Meadow, and Thelwell believes that the 20-year-old can add competition to the attacking ranks at Molineux.

The 40-year-old told the Express & Star: "Liam has done really well during his time at Shrewsbury and scored some important goals for them.

"It has been a great experience for him and will certainly have helped his development.

"We are now heading into a very busy period of fixtures and feel that it is the right time to bring Liam back to Wolves to add to the cover and competition in the striking positions."

McAlinden had scored once in three appearances for Wolves before he departed for Shrewsbury in October.