Paul Hurst: Disappointing not to get that 'fairytale ending' for Shrewsbury Town

Salop saw their promotion hopes end with a 2-1 defeat to Rotherham in the League One play-off final.

It is their fifth straight loss at Wembley – and it may prove to be Hurst’s final game at the Town helm as he is the favourite for the Ipswich job.

On if he feels pride or disappointment, Hurst, pictured below, said: “Both. I’m not sure. My stomach is telling me disappointment, my head is telling me to be very proud that we’ve come so close to getting promoted.

“Naturally, everyone connected with Shrewsbury Town wanted that fairytale ending – we haven’t got that.

“You see grown men cry – people sometimes question whether players really care. These lads earn a decent-ish wage but not to just put their feet up and retire when that comes around. They are a genuine group and I’ve been proud to be their manager.”

There has been speculation that Hurst will be speaking to the Tractor Boys about replacing Mick McCarthy.

The former Wolves boss stepped down following six years in charge at Portman Road. Hurst was also linked with Sunderland before they appointed Jack Ross.

“That’s been happening for quite a bit of the season,” said Hurst on reports on his future.

“That’s not me being big headed, don’t take that the wrong way because it’s not me, but I can’t stop what people go and write and say. At this moment in time, all that I’m concerned about is trying to lift those players, who are disappointed.

“I’ve got a couple of things to take care of, housekeeping at Shrewsbury and moving forward – we’ve got players who are out of contract. My mind is very much on that. I don’t see anything at this moment in time.”