Dom Smith happy to take wide route at Shrewsbury
Dom Smith is happy to be Shrewsbury Town's 'Mr Versatile' if it means more time on the pitch.
An injury to Jack Grimmer meant Smith found himself in the unfamiliar position of right-back for Saturday's FA Cup tie with Fleetwood.
But the 20-year-old performed admirably in the wide position as Town kept a fifth clean sheet in seven games. It was just the second start of the season for the academy product, who spent part of the campaign on loan at non-league Barrow.
And Smith is happy to stay on the flank, if it helps force his way into boss Paul Hurst's plans.
"I want to be able to play whenever I can, whether it's at right-back or centre-back to be honest – as long as I'm playing then I'm happy," he said. "I'm happy playing football and I'll play as long as I can.
"Games like Saturday, an FA Cup game, you've got to go out and do your best. I'll enjoy and take every game I play."
Smith's only previous start had been in October's 1-1 draw at Southend, Hurst's first game in charge.
The highly-rated youngster believes there is plenty he can pick up from playing alongside experienced heads such as skipper Adam El-Abd and Mat Sadler, who have formed a formidable partnership at the heart of Town's defence. "There's so much to learn from them," he said.
Town's luck was out in the FA Cup third round draw. Victory in next Tuesday's replay at Fleetwood would bring a difficult trip to Championship side Bristol City.
