Gaffer gives his thoughts on Whalley's new deal
Shrewsbury Town Manager Paul Hurst is pleased to get his first deal of the summer complete as Shaun Whalley signs a new deal with the club.
Whalley becomes the first of last season’s out of contract players to put pen to paper on a deal, signing for two years.
Shaun played a big role in Town’s fight against relegation last season and Paul was delighted that he will be part of his plans going forward.
“I think he’s done well since I’ve come to the club”, Paul told ShrewsWeb.
“You know that I like my wingers and Shaun in a lot of ways is a bit of a throwback in terms of how he likes to play the game.
“I’ve often referred to him at times that it’s like he’s in the playground, but I take that in a positive sense. Overall, he’s very positive in his play.
“He’s had a couple of not so good games, but he’s arguably been our most creative player, certainly since I arrived, and from that point of view I want him to be part of it.
“In fairness to Shaun he said he wanted to stay. I think he appreciated the faith that I’ve put into him and the fact that he’s played a lot of games.
“I haven’t promised that again and I have said to him that I hope his competition this season will be stronger. But, at the same time, if he can have his good days on a regular basis then I think he will be an asset for us.”
Shaun has come a long way from his non-league days and Paul is urging him to continue developing at Shrewsbury Town.
“I’m pleased we’ve got him for a couple of seasons now”, admitted Hurst.
“He keeps telling me how he’s matured and I think he has in fairness from where he was once he went into non-league. He probably turned up and played, but away from it was he 100% focussed on his job? Perhaps not.
“I think now he’s getting a lot better at that. He sees a value in it. I think he’s had some rewards thankfully. Hopefully he sees signing a new deal as a reward and that he’s ready to make the most of what should be very good years for him.
“But, I don’t want him to think that’s it now. I want him to push himself. I want lots of people to be talking about him and when opposition look at us I want them to be saying we need to stop Shaun Whalley.”
Paul was pleased to be able to get Shaun’s deal done quickly and will now turn his attention to other business.
“Every time someone signs it makes life a little bit easier and you can focus more on a certain position”, said Paul.
“With the other lads (out of contract) I haven’t pushed on them as yet, but I will be expecting to hear from a couple of them shortly. Sads (Mat Sadler) we’d agreed a time for a catch-up, but the other two realistically have had enough time now to expect something in the not too distant future.”