Sheffield Wednesday: Fernando Forestieri isn't working hard enough for a place in Owls first team, says Barry Bannan

The Argentina-born forward has yet to make a start under Garry Monk having sat out his first six matches through suspension, but made a notable impact as a substitute in their disappointing 1-1 midweek draw with Birmingham.

Wednesday supporters have called for Forestieri to be given a recall as a raft of missed chances extended their winless run to five games.

But Bannan, who has played in the same side as the forward since his arrival at Hillsborough in 2015, accused him of not working hard enough behind the scenes.

Asked whether he thinks Forestieri – who’s contract is up in the summer – deserves to play a bigger part in the Owls’ season, the Scot said:

“We train day-in, day-out and you've got to work hard in training to get into the team.

“It's up to Fernando. We know the quality that he's got, but if you're not working hard in training and not working hard on the pitch, you're not going to play.

“So he needs to brush up on that side of things.”

Forestieri, now 29, has scored one goal and recorded one assist so far in a season limited to cameo appearances from the bench.

And while Bannan has previously recognised the trickster as ‘the best player at the club on his day’, he was clear that the time is now for him to put the effort in and contribute to turning around a run of five matches without a win.

“He's coming back from some time out,” the Owls vice-captain said, “so he's needed time here and there to get up to full fitness, but I'm sure Fernando can play a big part this season.

“We all know how good a player he is, it's just about getting that other side and getting him working hard for the team. Then, no doubt, he'll be one of the first names on the team sheet.”