How memories of Eric Cantona could inspire Sheffield Wednesday's shackling of Manchester City's Kevin De Bruyne this evening

The ‘Scottish Xavi’ as he’s revered by some is now well into his fifth season at Sheffield Wednesday. He’s a student of the game, a player who lives and breathes every second of every match he’s in, screaming balling, demanding the very best from those around him.

Diminutive in stature, Bannan is a giant in this ailing Wednesday side, a key man in the vast majority of big Owls performances this season and the go-to figure for set pieces and tempo-setting.

Struggling with a groin injury in recent weeks, he chose to have an injection in order to prevent any absence from his club’s current run.

And this evening’s FA Cup fifth round clash with Manchester City provides another special night for the Scotsman.

“When I was back home in Scotland you always sit down to watch the best games and the FA Cup is obviously a massive tournament.

“One of my first memories of football is Cantona scoring that scissor kick at the Old Wembley [in the 96 final] and I always remember that.

“Growing up as a kid you always want to play in the FA Cup and I'm glad that I've fulfilled that goal of playing in it. We're playing against one of the best teams in the country so it's a massive game for us.

Asked by The Star how on earth he intends to keep tabs on Belgian superstar Kevin De Bruyne, he laughed: “I don't know! We might need a few more players than 11!

“He's a special player obviously. I watch him week in, week out.

“He's probably at the top of his game at the minute and you've got to admire players with that ability but our job tomorrow is to try and stop him and take him out of his comfort zone.

“That's what we'll be trying, we've got a game plan that we'll try to stick to. Some of these players can't be stopped but we'll try our hardest to stop him.”