Sheffield Wednesday: Former favourite backs Owls for top two finish

Wednesday’s bid for a top two finish during the last campaign was hampered by a slow start where they picked up just six points from their opening seven games.

Fan favourite Llera believes will be better placed for a stronger push next season as long as they do not suffer a hangover from the Championship play-off final defeat to Hull City.

And the former centre half turned academy owner has tipped head coach Carlos Carvalhal to have them champing at the bit for the start of next season.

“Carlos is a person with vast knowledge and experience,” Llera said.

“Wednesday already have a solid base and I think it will be key for them to start next season properly.

“It took them until around October time to find consistency last season.

“If they start well from the beginning, I believe they can fight for the top two.

“It’s a tough league but they have the base to do well.”

Wednesday will lay down a marker for the season if they do make a strong start as they face Aston Villa and Norwich City in their first two games, both of whom dropped out of the Premier League last season.