Paul Hurst: In form Dom Smith can improve

The 20-year-old has made five appearances in all competitions for Town so far this campaign – two of them starts – after returning from a loan spell at non-league Barrow.

He was used from the outset in the 0-0 draw with Fleetwood in the FA Cup at the Greenhous Meadow last weekend, helping the side to a fifth clean sheet in seven games.

"He has impressed me. I always feel with Dom that there's an element of him being slightly nervous because I know what it means to him," said Hurst.

"It's getting that balance and having that control of those nerves and the desire of wanting to do well.

"Defensively I think he's done very well. He's just got to be a bit calmer on the ball. Perhaps see a pass a little bit quicker."

Predominantly a centre-back, academy product Smith filled in at right-back against the Cod Army due to an injury to Jack Grimmer.

He has admitted he is happy to be versatile if it means getting more time on the pitch and Hurst said: "I know full well that when he plays in that position (right-back) it's defensive qualities first and foremost that are going to come to the fore.

"Longer term, and if you ask Dom, then he would be a centre-back so with that view he's done very well."

Smith played 21 league games for Salop last season as the side retained their League One status.

He has starred for Wales in their youth ranks, making 13 appearances at under-19 level and featuring three times for the under-21s.

Hurst believes being able to play in two positions will help Smith in the long run and added: "For Wales when he goes away he's a centre-back more often than not. But it is good if he understands both positions, it should help if you play both.

"When you play one of them you understand what the person alongside you should be doing or perhaps where they should end up on the pitch. He can be pleased with his work."

Meanwhile, caretaker under-18s manager Matt Rains has praised his players for their 2-1 FA Youth Cup victory over Accrington Stanley.

Goals from Ryan Sears and Matt Jones sealed a spot in the last 32.

"To have a little run in the FA Youth Cup is fantastic for them," he told shrewsburytown.com.