Paul Hurst wary of old-boy factor as Richie Wellens returns to Shrewsbury with Oldham

The 37-year-old former Blackpool and Leicester man has been in charge as Boundary Park since September, when he was appointed caretaker boss.

Wellens, who was signed by Micky Mellon and made 12 appearances for Town, impressed in charge of the Latics and was offered the role permanently in October.

He has guided the club that Town sent bottom with a defeat in September out of the League One drop zone. They currently sit 19th.

"They've got a manager that used to play for Shrewsbury so naturally he's going to want to win those type of games – I'm sure he's going to try and win them all, but more when you come up against that story," Hurst warned.

"They've changed their style somewhat. They've got some good players, we saw that over there when we got the victory.

"The turnaround, travel, the Southend pitch, people can think you're making excuses but Oldham haven't done as many miles.

"I don't the pitch was as heavy as this.

"We've got to find it within the group, individually and collectively for another big effort to try and start 2018 off in the manner we all want."

Hurst will check whether Stefan Payne is fit enough to feature after missing the trip to Southend with an injury he sustained at Wigan on Boxing Day.

The boss hinted that there could be changes for the fourth game in 10 days.

He added: "I know there'll be five or six that will play and after that I could maybe change one or two around.

"(I've got) Some thinking and discussions but I've said it many time, everyone that's been on the bench at Southend and Stef if he is OK, they're all first-team players in my eyes.

"The team will be competitive whatever it is."