Shropshire Star

Super Shrewsbury are on the map – Brian Caldwell

Chief executive Brian Caldwell believes a ‘dream’ season and a mouthwatering FA Cup tie are helping put Shrewsbury on the map.

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Town are battling on three fronts at the beginning of 2018. They sit second in League One, have Premier League West Ham visiting on Sunday in the third round of the FA Cup and face a last 16 Checkatrade Trophy clash with Blackpool next Wednesday.

And with the addition of safe-standing, which could begin its instillation next month, the CEO is excited about life at Montgomery Waters Meadow.

“For us to still be in two cup competitions at the turn of the year, plus be second in the league is a dream for everybody.

“Realistically we would all say we’re doing far better than we expected, to say the least.

“To get a game live on TV, financially makes us stronger as well.”

The third round tie with David Moyes’ and Joe Hart’s West Ham sold out yesterday. Caldwell, who celebrates his second year as chief executive next month, believes the club – under the superb stewardship of Paul Hurst – have made their mark this season.

“Safe-standing put us on the map,” he added. “Our league form has put us on the map and now this, BBC1 against Premier League opposition, it’s really good for Shrewsbury, the town and people.

“A lot of people don’t know where Shrewsbury is. When I moved here a lot of people said ‘where is Shrewsbury?’ So I think there’ll be a genuine interest.

“People like seeing the so-called smaller teams, what their stadiums are like and what it’s all about for them. It’s a big occasion for the football club and town.”