Sheffield Wednesday: What Jos Luhukay thought of Ash Baker's Owls debut

He had to wait patiently for an opportunity to showcase his talent.
Owls debutant Ash Baker and Cameron Dawson keep Norwich City outOwls debutant Ash Baker and Cameron Dawson keep Norwich City out
Owls debutant Ash Baker and Cameron Dawson keep Norwich City out

But Ash Baker made a promising start to his Owls career in Sunday’s 5-1 thumping of Norwich City.

The Welshman, who moved to Hillsborough from Cardiff City in January 2017, looked unfazed on the big stage, making a number of key defensive blocks. He made one superb sliding challenge in his own penalty area to stop Canaries forward Josh Murphy from forcing Cameron Dawson into action in the first half.

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It was a confident, accomplished debut by Baker and the right wing-back deservedly received a standing ovation when he was brought off with six minutes left.

Boss Jos Luhukay told The Star: “He defended very well. He was very positive and aggressive. He won his one on one situations and made two or three good tackles.

“I’m happy for the boy. It was his first game in front of a full house and he did a good job.

Baker was taken off after 84 minutes against NorwichBaker was taken off after 84 minutes against Norwich
Baker was taken off after 84 minutes against Norwich

“He was not afraid so I can only thank my colleagues in the academy. They have built this boy up to where he now is.”

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Bridgend-born Baker, who is equally adept at playing full-back or in central midfield, was delighted to make his Owls debut.

The 21-year-old, who signed a contract extension last month, tying him to the club until 2020, said: “I can’t tell you how much I enjoyed it; I didn’t want to come off!”

“This month has been crazy and I couldn’t have asked for a better couple of weeks. I’ve been on the bench a number of times this season itching to get on but the manager has given me my full debut and I can’t thank him enough.”