FA Cup Countdown: Dilemma for grandson of former Manchester United player Jack Wassall
Shrewsbury Town's highly anticipated game against Premier League giants Manchester United will be one to remember for this supporter – but he'll be torn when it comes to picking a side.
Chris Wassall, 40, from Greenfields Gardens in Shrewsbury, has uncovered family links to both teams and can't wait to see them go head to head at Greenhous Meadow.
He said: "My grandfather – Jack Wassall, known as Jackie – played for Manchester United from 1935 to 1939. He was recruited from Wellington Town as a 17-year-old and he was described in a letter I had as a skilful, lightweight forward.
"His best year was his last year there before he went to the war – that is what stopped his career.
"He was voted one of the top young players by Topical Times Sporting Annual.
"But his brother – Bill Wassall – played for Shrewsbury Town around the same time, from about 1930.
"I have a trophy he was given that says it was awarded for services playing for Shrewsbury Town.
"I think he played as a forward as well."
And with such strong links to the upcoming FA Cup game next Monday Mr Wassall, a carpenter, said he will be struggling to choose a side.
"I will be torn," he said. "I think I would like to see a draw and then for Shrewsbury to win at Manchester United.
"So I'm going for a 2-2 draw and then for Shrewsbury to win 2-1.
"I have been waiting for this to happen for years. When I heard it I just couldn't believe it.
"I don't think there will be another game like it so I can't wait to see it.
"I haven't got a ticket yet but I will be in that queue waiting for one."
