Why Barry Bannan's so important to Sheffield Wednesday

Barry Bannan celebrating the win over Hull on Saturday.....Pic Steve Ellis

Already a pivotal member of the squad, and indeed arguably the most consistent performer before being forced out through injury in December, Bannan’s influence was certainly missed when the Scot suffered a recurrence of his groin complaint.

Bannan came back into the side against Leeds United, which heralded the end of a seven-match run without a win.

Delighted with the win at Hull, Owls boss Jos Luhukay and Barry Bannan.....Pic Steve Ellis

Then came two victories over Preston and Sunderland with Bannan in the side.

The midfielder came off early in the defeat to Fulham and subsequently missed the Owls hammering by QPR at Loftus Road last week.

However, having been told that the injury wasn’t as bad as first feared, Bannan was back in the side for the trip to Hull City on Saturday, which of course led to a return to winning ways for Wednesday

“I was very happy that we had Barry back for Hull,” said boss Jos Luhukay.

“He’s so important for us. He slows play down and with his passing he can make dangerous situations.”