Shrewsbury Town will always have a special place in my heart - says Paul Hurst

Hurst and his long-term assistant Chris Doig were relieved of their duties on Sunday following the FA Cup exit at the hands of League Two Salford City after two wins in 19 games. 

And the former boss - who had two spells in charge in Shropshire - has spoken for the first time since he was sacked as Town's head coach.  

The 50-year-old said even though his second spell at the club did not end up how he would have liked - he still has fond memories. 

In a classy statement via the League Managers Association, Hurst said he was delighted his side managed to maintain their League One status at the end of last season but acknowledged results have been hard to come by this term. 

"It is with sadness that I write this, now my time at Shrewsbury Town has come to an end," Hurst said via the LMA.  "Although my second spell at the club was not as successful as I would have liked, I still leave with fond memories.

"After enjoying such a fantastic time at the club previously, it was always my desire to return one day and when I was given the opportunity to do so I felt very privileged. I will be forever grateful to the Chairman for making that wish come true.

"When Chris Doig and I did return, the aim was to maintain our League One status and thanks to a big effort from the players and staff, we achieved that goal. 

"A summer of change followed as we prepared for the challenge of an extremely competitive division but, despite some positive performances, results proved hard to come by."

Town have a huge game against Buton Albion tomorrow lunchtime in League One and with such a large proportion of the season remaining Hurst hopes the team can achieve the goal they set for themselves at the start of the season. 

"With several games remaining and lots of points still to play for, I hope the players can achieve what we set out to do from the start of the season and prove the doubters wrong."

Hurst has now had two spells at the Croud Meadow, and despite his second tenure being unsuccessful he left with reputation untarnished among Shrewsbury supporters. 

In his statement he thanked the fans for their consistent support and wished the club 'nothing but success in the future'. 

"On my return to the club, I was reunited with some familiar faces, as well as getting to know, and work, with some new ones," he said. "I will miss you and wish you all the best.

"To the Blue and Amber Army - I can only thank you for how you welcomed me back and continued to support me and the team, even during the difficult times. The club will always have a special place in my heart and I wish Shrewsbury Town nothing but success in the future."

Town are now looking to appoint their fourth head coach since the start of 2023. 

The Shropshire Star exclusively revealed on Thursday Dino Maamria and Gareth Ainsworth are both in the mix for the job.

It is also understood Andy Mangan is also a candidate for the vacant position.