Paul Hurst keen to keep hold of key Shrewsbury Town quartet

There was little surprise as player of the year Sadler and ever-present winger Whalley were offered new Greenhous Meadow contracts – with the duo’s existing deals running out this summer.

Midfielder and January addition from Premier League Middlesbrough Morris caught the eye in blue and amber after leaving his boyhood club.

Promising goalkeeper Rowley has had loan spells at Chorley and Slough this season that have further boosted his burgeoning reputation

Hurst has regularly praised the rejuvenated Sadler, 32, as an outstanding link between Town’s management squad and the first-team players.

He said: “I can’t speak highly enough of Sads in terms of his off-field (behaviour), he’s one that others will go to for advice, organises off the field, got the community award. He’s got the lads’ respect and won the players’ player (award). Hopefully he thinks it’s right to stay a bit longer.”

Popular Scouse winger Whalley, who chalked up three crucial assists towards the end of the campaign as Town secured safety, will also enter his third season with Town if he accepts the terms.

Hurst hinted that he is looking for the 29-year-old to become more consistent in his dynamic performances, adding that competition out wide could be key to seeing the best from Whalley and fellow wide man Alex Rodman.

“Shaun’s positive when he picks the ball up, there’s been quite a few games where he’s done very well, there’s been others where he hasn’t,” said the boss.

“Wingers are known for being inconsistent but in general he’s had more positives than negatives – he likes running at players.

“I am looking to have more options in wide areas next season. I’d like at least one more if not two to make it a real competition.”

On Rowley, who won a player of the month award with Chorley and helped Slough to the play-offs, Hurst added: “We hope he’s one for the future.

“You need to give goalkeepers time, it’s very difficult to find many young keepers that are ready to go into the first team.

“Speaking to Coyney (goalkeeping coach Danny Coyne) and seeing things myself, we think he may have a future.”

Morris, who was hailed as the next big thing on Teesside, has been playing to secure his future in league football, and Hurst has previously warned clubs at higher levels could become interested.

“I look at him, his age, where he came from, to come in and how hard that was, how he found the change in training,” he added.

“I think he’s gradually adapted. He’s certainly someone I’d like to see in a Shrewsbury shirt. I’ve been impressed by his attitude as much as anything. There’s more to come without a shadow of a doubt.”