The Sheffield Wednesday player who impressed Garry Monk this week

Yes, the bar was low after a terrible performance against Derby County last weekend, but there were quite a few players who came out with a great deal of credit in Sheffield Wednesday’s next game against Manchester City.
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There was no shame in losing by just the one goal and given that there was little in the way of attacking play going on, it was the defence who took the majority of the plaudits.

One of those to pick up his fair share of praise was Dominic Iorfa.

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The 24-year-old has had a difficult couple of weeks. He was sacrificed at half time against Birmingham when Garry Monk reverted from five at the back to four and Irofa was then left out of the side that beat Charlton a few days later.

Garry Monk looks on as his Wednesday side battle to contain City.Garry Monk looks on as his Wednesday side battle to contain City.
Garry Monk looks on as his Wednesday side battle to contain City.

The former Wolves defender came on at half time against Derby next up, as Tom Lees was hooked and Iorfa maintained his place in the side that battled bravely against Pep Guardiola’s men.

That’s quite a lot to cram into 18 days and Monk has been impressed by his player’s attitude and resilience.

The manager told The Star: “In this period, we have had inconsistencies. Some in control in terms of form and performances and others in terms of injuries, suspension and freshness.

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“What you need to do is react whenever you are not there or react when you are in the team to make sure you keep that shirt and Dom has shown that reaction.

Dominic Iorfa up with Manchester City's Nicolas Otamendi. Pic Steve EllisDominic Iorfa up with Manchester City's Nicolas Otamendi. Pic Steve Ellis
Dominic Iorfa up with Manchester City's Nicolas Otamendi. Pic Steve Ellis

“But he needs to maintain it. It is part of his curve.”

And Monk was also quick to point out that Iorfa is not a natural central defender, having played the majority of his career as a right back and is therefore still learning on the job.

“It is the first time in his career he had a sustained period at centre half so he has still got a lot to learn in that position,” he added.

“You have also got to remember he has not a full season before in his career. He is not a seasoned pro and he is still learning like quite a few of the players. He has definitely made huge progress overall this season.”