PLAYERS who find themselves on the fringes of Grimsby Town's squad don't have too far to look for inspiration – just follow Frankie Artus' lead.
That's the message from joint boss Paul Hurst who holds the Bristolian up as an example for players on the fringes of the squad to follow as the Mariners prepare for the promotion run-in.
Having confirmed their place in the play-offs with a midweek victory over Dartford, the co- managers have revealed their intention to shuffle the pack in order to keep their squad fresh.
Ahead of tonight's trip to Luton (7.45pm), Hurst says players who have not regularly figured in the Town squad of late will be called upon in the final three games of the regular season.
And he added that Artus' journey from out in the cold to the hallowed turf of Wembley, is one that those players should be looking to emulate.
"He's the prime example for lads who haven't been playing, as to how to come in and stake a claim," Hurst told the Telegraph.
"Frankie has been excellent for us since coming in.
"He played at Wembley and, even on the day of the final, he still found time to sort an extra couple of tickets for family – that just goes to show that he didn't think he was going to be involved.
"But he came in and did excellently for us on that day. He's then played a couple more games and done extremely well – particularly at Dartford.
"It's about that readiness and that's what I'm trying to instill in all the players.
"They might think they're the furthest player from the starting line-up, but that can change so you have to be ready to take that opportunity – if you're not, you let yourselves and your club down.
"Frankie was ready for that opportunity and he took it.
"He did a hell of a lot of work after his hernia operation and made sure he was available for us when called upon, and we're very happy with him.
"If you're out of the team but then come in and are our best player two games running, you give us a massive problem."
Far from being a case of 'season over' after confirming their place in the play-offs, the joint bosses want Town's performances to give them selection headaches all over the pitch.
Hurst added: "We have got a good squad, and irrespective of who we put out, it's not just about getting through the season for us.
"We expect performances from everyone, if we don't get the results then so be it.
"But we are striving for the performances to give myself and Rob a headache.
"In the lead up to the FA Trophy final, it was the players who weren't playing regularly who were pushing for the team and asking questions of us – like Frankie.
"We're looking for that situation again where we've got three or four players fighting for one position.
"It's still very much not season over for us."
