'You deserve it' - Barry Bannan sends emotional response to Sheffield Wednesday teammate after farewell post
Barry Bannan has issued an emotional response to Liam Palmer’s lengthy Instagram post about the Scot’s impending Sheffield Wednesday exit.
Outgoing Sheffield Wednesday captain Barry Bannan has urged Liam Palmer to try and smash the club’s all-time appearance record as he heads towards a Hillsborough exit.
Bannan made what is expected to have been his 477th and final appearance for the Owls in Saturday’s 2-0 defeat to Bristol City at Ashton Gate ahead of an anticipated move to Millwall.
The Scot, who has spent ten-and-a-half years at Hillsborough after arriving on a free transfer back in August 2015, was substituted to a standing ovation in the closing stages at Ashton Gate before breaking down in tears in front of the away end following full-time.
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Bannan, who has netted three goals for Wednesday this season, is idolised in the blue and white half of the Steel City, meaning it is going to be incredibly difficult for everyone associated with the club to get used to life without him.
Palmer, who posted an emotional farewell to Bannan on social media on Saturday evening, admitted it will be “unbelievably strange” not to be able to turn to the Scot either in the dressing room or on the pitch.
Bannan and Palmer have shared a collection of highs and lows together during their Owls careers, and Bannan is now urging Palmer, who has made 491 appearances for Wednesday, to try and become the club’s all-time appearance holder.
Bannan issues emotional response to Palmer
“My brother and family forever,” Bannan said in a response to Palmer’s lengthy Instagram post. “When we met, I saw a young man that was way beyond his years in life, [a] family to be proud of [a] proper, proper legend.
“I wanted what you had and a few years down the line from watching you and your family [and later] I had my own family which is my world. You showed me the way, brother, and for that I’ll be forever grateful and won’t forget.
“But what we had which is similar is the love from a fan base that won’t be touched. Mate, you’re a legend and a brother forever.
“Go [and] smash that record apps [appearances], you deserve it. From a fan to a legend of the club that your adore, love ya, brother.
“It’s not a goodbye, it’s a see you soon.”