Sheffield Wednesday man has ‘no doubts’ as to how fast they can adapt to Xisco-ball

Much work has already been done in the Spaniard’s brief time in the Hillsborough hotseat - gruelling double-sessions and all - but a week’s uniterrupted access to the players and two friendlies will offer a unique opportunity to further instil his ways of working.

With two leg-stretching friendly outings already under the belt - a draw at York City and a win at Chesterfield - Xisco has already made tweaks to how Wednesday played the majority of their football in the two-and-a-touch season reign of Darren Moore.

Most notably it appears he is keen to play with four across defence and while there’s no definite system settled upon just yet, the Owls are set to take on a bold attacking philosophy as they re-enter the second tier. It’s an approach that has excited many within the fan base.

“He’s trying to give us his ideas at the moment and everyone is taking it in as much as they can,” said important midfield man George Byers after a whirlwind first week or so with the new boss.

“The more games you see us play, then the more games you’ll see us with that style he wants us to play with. Listen, we’re going to be in good stead come the start of the season. I’ve no doubts about that.

“We’ve had some tough double sessions. But it’s pre-season and so you have to get these sessions into you to make sure that your body is fitter, stronger and can get used to coping with situations like that.”