Sheffield Wednesday: Carlos Carvalhal challenges Fernando Forestieri to get even better for Owls

Fernando Forestieri is loving life at Hillsborough and is focused on helping the team be successful in the Championship, according to Carlos Carvalhal.
Goal...Owls Fernando Forestieri celebrates his penalty goal...Pic Steve EllisGoal...Owls Fernando Forestieri celebrates his penalty goal...Pic Steve Ellis
Goal...Owls Fernando Forestieri celebrates his penalty goal...Pic Steve Ellis

The striker bagged his second goal in as many matches in Saturday’s 2-0 triumph at lowly Wolverhampton Wanderers. Victory was Wednesday’s first at Molineux in seven attempts.

Forestieri converted a 15th minute penalty after he had been hacked down by Matt Doherty and was also heavily involved in the second goal, which was lashed in by Kieran Lee.

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The 26-year-old, who refused to play against Norwich City earlier this season just days after Wednesday turned down a £7m bid from Derby County, terrorised Wolves’ defence throughout.

Now Carvalhal has challenged Forestieri to better the 15 goals he managed last campaign.

“Fernando is very happy here and that is the most important thing,” he said. “He had the best season of his career in terms of goals and assists last year and we expect him to do better. He has the abilities to do it.”

Forestieri’s spot-kick took his tally for the season to five.

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Carvalhal said: “I told Fernando that he is back again and we are happy about that. We need the best Fernando here. He performed very well against Fulham in the last game and (against Wolves) he again did very well and it is the Fernando we know and recognise and that the coaches and fans like.

“He has a fantastic environment here to have another good season. We need him and he gave a good answer.”

Jack Hunt (back) and Barry Bannan (foot) will be assessed but are expected to be available for selection when the Owls entertain Preston.