The Plymouth boss was expecting a stiff test for his team against the resurgent Owls today.

"I'm delighted for the Wednesday fams that the team are doing so well," said Sturrock, whose sacking appears not to have affected his fondness for the club.

"Brian Laws has done a good job under difficult circumstances. They are looking positive and I'm pleased for everybody at Sheffield Wednesday.

"They have done well at Home Park in the past and they are dangerous opponents at the moment. We are going to have to be on top of our game."

Of course Sturrock would like nothing better than to dent the Owls' successful run today.

Laws gives his predecessor equal respect: "He's done a terrific job wherever he's been and is held in high regard at Sheffield Wednesday, particularly by the supporters.

"I know he'll be looking at this game as one he wants to win, the same as I wanted to beat Forest as they are my old club. It gives an extra edge to the game.

"I've spoken to Paul many times. He's a nice guy. I have nothing but praise for him. The way he has turned things around since the start of the season is testimony to him."

Sturrock was shortlisted for the manager of the month award after taking 10 points out of 12 with a new-look side.

He said: "I dropped seven players. I wanted the ones who were honest and hard-working and got back to working hard with them. They all kicked on because of it. We have a better team spirit now."

Plymouth left back Chris Barker is a Sheffield-born Wednesday fan and is looking forward to playing against the Owls again after already doing so for Barnsley, Cardiff, Colchester and QPR.

He said: "There is only one team in Sheffield – Wednesday."

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Owls Watch 08-09 - The Season So Far
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