Shropshire Star

Shrewsbury Town will offer Joe Riley their full support

Paul Hurst says Shrewsbury will give their full support to Joe Riley – as the boss paid tribute to club legend Ken Mulhearn.

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Riley, 26, and his partner Kayleigh lost baby Leo this week, who was stillborn. With the full-back granted leave until next week, Hurst added there will be no rush to get him back involved.

“It’s extremely sad news for Joe and his partner who were expecting their first child,” said Hurst. “The little boy didn’t make it.

“Everyone has sent messages. He’s still very much in our thoughts, he’s been given time off.

“The plan is he’ll be back next week but we won’t rush him. It’s important he has his grieving process and he’s there for his partner and family. When he comes back he’ll continue to get that support.”

A sad week for the club also saw the death of former goalkeeper Mulhearn, who passed away peacefully aged 72.

“I’d also like to mention Ken Mulhearn, a club legend. I didn’t see him play but am fully aware of what he did,” Hurst added.

“He’d pop his head around the coaches’ room and tell us a joke. He always made us smile and laugh. If we were ever feeling uptight on game day or needed a pick-me-up Ken provided that.

“Thoughts and condolences to his family.

“He was very proud of (his grandson) Harry Lewis, he talked about him.

“The staff and I will remember him making us laugh and smile.”