Omar Beckles: I will be Shrewsbury Town's Mr Motivator
Defender Omar Beckles believes Shrewsbury are ‘streetwise’ enough to keep themselves out of a psychological rut – and he will play ‘Mr Motivator’ to help raise spirits.
John Askey’s Town are going into battle against Sunderland at Montgomery Waters Meadow today searching for just a third League One win.
Beckles, who is expected to continue at left-back, sees himself as a key man to help keep heads up both at the Meadow and Sundorne Castle.
But the 26-year-old feels there is enough experience in the Salop dressing room to not let the stuttering start to the season affect spirit and morale.
“I feel like I always try to keep a positive atmosphere around the ground, as much as possible,” Beckles said.
“I tend to be ‘Mr Motivator’ at times and try to pick up the lads whenever they’re down.
“I do my best to. It’s a tough one to do. Everyone’s unique. It is tough but I do try my best.”
On keeping spirits high behind the scenes, Beckles added: “It is important. If the atmosphere turns a bit sour then you just find yourself in a bit of a rut then you’re in that sunken place you can’t get out.
“You definitely don’t want to be there.
“I think we’ve got enough lads in there that have been around, are streetwise, and won’t get into that place. I think we’ll be fine.”
The former Accrington defender explained how boss Askey allows his players to play without fear and places responsibility on the shoulders of Beckles.
“He’s different. He loves us playing and gives us the freedom to play, which is always nice, you don’t always get that,” added the powerful stopper.
“He’s pretty OK with me, he encourages me to be more of a leader around the training ground.”
Beckles continued: “We’ve got some players with some real ability, which makes it (the season) really strange.”
