Paul Hurst insists his players are looking to progress in the FA Cup and will not be influenced by the financial issues surrounding the club, as reported by the Shropshire Star.
Hurst takes his side to Salford City for their first-round clash this afternoon.
Financial Importance
The financial rewards a cup run can bring are not lost on Hurst, with the side who are victorious today walking away with £45,000 and the chance to play for £75,000 in the next round.
Shrewsbury announced a £3 million loss in their most recent set of accounts, which only adds to the importance of fixtures like this.
The Pressure Is There Anyway
The players, of course, will be aware of the financial struggles of the club but Hurst says that his players have to focus on winning the game.
“I’m certainly aware of it. And I would love to have a great cup run. The club earns some money and brings some reprieve, a bit of help for the chairman moving forward.”
“But the reality is we can’t go on to the pitch, as in the players, thinking about that.”
“The pressure is there anyway. It’s always there. What we’ve got to try to do is manage that the best that we can.”
“Whether that’s the situation in terms of finding wins difficult to come by, or whether that’s when you’re flying and that pressure comes because you want to keep winning because the teams behind you are winning and you want to try and get promoted.”
“They’re aware of it, they get it. But, like I said, that won’t be influencing performance.”
In Desperate Need Of A Win
Salop heads into this match on a run of just one victory in their last five matches and just two wins in their 14 league matches so far.
Writer’s View
Putting the financial implications aside, Shrewsbury needs a win from somewhere to potentially kick-start their season.
Their hosts are unbeaten in four so it will not be an easy task to progress to round two. Those in the boardroom will be hoping cup progression can start to ease the financial burden they are currently facing.
A primary school teacher turned writer, Tom has been part of The Real EFL for two years. He focuses on predictions, deep dives, and insightful content.
