Paul Hurst: Gary Deegan vital in Abu Ogogo's absence
Paul Hurst is hoping for big performances from midfielder Gary Deegan as Shrewsbury prepare for life without Abu Ogogo.
Ogogo injured his knee at Scunthorpe, with Hurst fearing a lengthy absence. But Deegan, 29, has been in fine form alongside Ogogo and Hurst believes the Irishman can help lead Town in the heart of midfield.
Youngster Bryn Morris and Ryan Yates, signed last month on a free and on-loan respectively, are Shrewsbury's other options in the middle of the pitch.
"He (Deegan) has only missed a couple of games," said Hurst. "The other night he tried to carry the team somewhat, tried to help Bryn (Morris) and Yatesy and now there's no doubt he's the senior man in the middle of the pitch.
"We'll need some big performances from him in these remaining games.
"Abs is battle-hardened. He's played a lot of game, he's a leader. I think any squad, realistically, would miss him.
"He has done fantastically well since I've come to the club and his energy and tackles and partnership he'd built with Deegs has been a real platform for us."
