Matt Richards tips Shrewsbury Town to make impact
Man-of-the-moment Matt Richards is confident Shrewsbury Town can take the rise in their stride and be a force to be reckoned with in League One.
Man-of-the-moment Matt Richards is confident Shrewsbury Town can take the rise in their stride and be a force to be reckoned with in League One.
The 27-year-old virtually swept the board at Monday's supporters' player of the year awards after an eye-catching first season since his arrival from Walsall.
Richards has previous experience of plying his trade in League One with Brighton and the Saddlers.
And he believes Town's style will be well suited to playing at a higher level. "We have shown how well we can do in League Two and I don't see why we can't compete and go somewhere in League One," said Richards.
"We have put in some amazing performances this season and I think we can be a strong team in League One.
"Hopefully, we will have a few better pitches to play on next season which will suit us and we will be able to get the ball down and pass it and move it around." Richards and his team-mates are turning their attention to Saturday's final game of the season at AFC Wimbledon.
But the midfielder admitted he was still trying to reflect on the magnitude of last Saturday's events when Town sealed a first promotion within the Football League for 18 years.
"I don't think it has quite sunk in yet," he added.
"Saturday was an amazing day to achieve what we did in front of a full stadium. I've never felt like that in my career.
"It feels weird at the moment, almost like the last day of term. But we have got another game and hopefully we can relax and play some good football."
While leading scorer James Collins, team captain Ian Sharps and defender Shane Cansdell-Sherriff are among the players out of contract this summer, Richards still has another 12 months to run on his deal.
"It's a nice feeling to be able to enjoy your summer," he added.
"I wouldn't want to be anywhere else. I love being here, both at the club and the area.
"I've enjoyed my football immensely this season."
See also:
Delighted Shrewsbury chairman Roland fulfils his dream
Shrewsbury loan star Aaron Wildig would love to stay
Matt Richards big winner at fans awards night
