James Collins leaves Hibs for Shrewsbury Town.

Hibs’ striker James Collins has left Easter Road to re-join former club Shrewsbury Town.

The 23-year-old forward moved to Easter Road from Swindon Town for a reporter £200,000 in late July 2013 and recorded 40 appearances for the club; scoring six goals, including the opener on Hibs’ new year derby win over Hearts.

Collins still had two years left on his Easter Road deal but after a disappointing season, Terry Butcher told him that he would not stand in his way if he could fix himself up with another team.

Shrewsbury, who have just been relegated to Skybet League Two, have agreed a two-year deal with the Irish under 21 international.

It is understood that Hibs will not receive a fee for the striker.

New Chief Executive Leeann Dempster said: “Everybody connected to the club would like to wish James all the best as he embarks on the next chapter of his career. We’ve agreed a mutually beneficial deal with Shrewsbury and now we move on.”

The ex-Aston Villa youngster becomes the 15th player to leave the club since the end of the season.

Photo by John Preece

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