IT WILL not be out of sight, out of mind for Niall Canavan while on loan at Shrewsbury Town.

The Scunthorpe defender, who moved to the New Meadow on loan for the rest of the campaign yesterday, has been told to keep up his rapid progress at the League Two club, with a view to fighting for a first-team place with the Iron next season.

ON LOAN: Niall Canavan has gone to Shrewsbury.

And he has already taken a big step along that road, having been called up to the Republic of Ireland Under-21s.

"He needs to play regular first-team football," said United caretaker assistant manager Lee Turnbull.

"When we have six fit centre-halves, I think Niall realises that because he's missed so much of the season with injury, he's not guaranteed first-team football at present.

"But I think his long-term future is still with this football club.

"If he progresses as he has done, I expect him to be in and around the starting line-up next season.

"He needs competitive games at a good level, and he can get that at Shrewsbury."

Initially however, Canavan will be hoping to impress for his country against Portugal on Saturday.

"That's terrific for Tony (Daws) because Niall's come through the youth development system," Turnbull added.

"He's been developed by Tony and Ian (Baraclough) and is now an international player."