Attacking trio can boost Shrewsbury in promotion hunt – Paul Hurst

Abo Eisa, Nathan Thomas and Sam Jones all completed deadline day moves to Montgomery Waters Meadow and are all in contention to make their Shrewsbury debuts at Bristol Rovers tomorrow.

Boss Hurst was keen to add to his attacking ranks in a bid to secure the desired quality to breakdown stubborn defences as rivals look to stifle third-placed Town.

"I hope they are a big boost in the promotion push – that's the idea," said Hurst.

"Overall it gives us lots of options. In training yesterday already I've seen lots of bits from them and what they can do.

"For the rest of the players it is good. There is more competition and they may be feeling a bit worried now. I want that. I'm not a believer of being comfortable and feeling you'll play better. It's not how I like to work.

"They've all shown their ability at the levels they've played at. Nathan and Sam have done it in the league and Abs has further down, scored some outstanding goals.

"We did finishing and he showed what he can do. They're all capable of getting goals which is important and I hope they can all chip in."

Hurst accepts that 21-year-old Eisa, who has signed his first professional deal after moving from the National League South, may take time to get up to speed. But the boss expects an impact from Sheffield United loan man Thomas and ex-Grimsby midfielder Jones.

He added: "In Eisa's case – he is certainly one we expect to have to work with more than the other two – but at the same time if he can show he's ready then it's not like he won't be considered.

"But the other two, you'd expect to be more ready.

"They all showed a willingness to come and join us. Nathan could have gone elsewhere. With Abs you have someone who has come in and is in awe at the opportunity he's been given, the stadium and a big grin on his face – it'll take him a bit of time to come to terms with it all."