Daniel Pudil and Frederico Venancio '˜couldn't do much more' to get new Sheffield Wednesday deal

Pudil’s current deal runs out at the end of the season and he has previously made it clear that he wants to stay in Sheffield.

Venancio, meanwhile, was brought to England from Portuguese side Vitória Setúbal on a year-long loan deal and he, too, has indicated his desite to remain at Wednesday.

Boss Jos Luhukay revealed last month that he would wait until the season was finished before telling the squad which players would be in his plans for the next campaign.

However, Lees feels that he has built up a rapport with the pair as part of a three-man central defensive backline and that said that neither Pudil or Venancio ‘could do much more’ to be awarded an extended stay.

“They have shown in the last few weeks, they are playing well,” said Lees.

“They have certainly put themselves in contention.

“I don’t think they could have been doing much more so it’s up to the manager and the club really; what they see and what their policy is and how they do it.

“But if you look on the pitch don’t think they could do much more.”

Lees added that he felt the team were growing in confidence at the back, as they continue with three central defenders.

“It’s been good, we’re doing really well,” he said.

“Communication’s been good. In the last few games we’ve had to do a little bit more, going out and finding someone to mark because we are playing against teams with one up front. Trying to get close to them.

“We are improving at it all the time.”