With Wednesday relentless in their pursuit of the play-offs, and an unbeaten run of 12 league games under their belt, it would appear that the last thing they needed was an enforced week off due to internationals.
But in form midfielder Barry Bannan disagrees, and thinks that it has come at the ideal time for key players to recover from niggling injuries.
He told the Sheffield Star: “Before the game, probably, but we have picked up two more injuries with Hutch [Sam Hutchinson] and Fletch [Steven Fletcher] so it’s a good thing now to get them back and get those that have been carrying injuries back as well for after the international break.”
It was because of Hutchinson’s injury that Bannan moved to the central midfield role early in the Owls’ 4-2 win over Blackburn Rovers on Saturday, which saw the Scot weigh in with three assists.
Speaking about his role in the side, he added: “That’s what I’m here to do — to create goals for the team and try to dominate games and I’m proud of how I’m playing at the minute.
“Obviously I’d like to score goals but the biggest thing for me is probably getting assists and I’m delighted with how it’s gone in the last few weeks.”
Bannan has certainly caught the eye with his rich vein of form lately, something which was not lost on Scotland manager, Alex McLeish, who handed the 29-year-old a call up to the national side.
He was, obviously, delighted with his call up, and was disappointed to be forced to pull out due to a minor knock he picked up at the weekend.
But he insists Wednesday defender, Liam Palmer, will represent Wednesday well in the squad, and hopes that he gets some time on the pitch, something that seems more likely with Liverpool’s Andy Robertson ruled out of the game.
“He’s been brilliant, he deserves his call up and I’m delighted for him, hopefully he can get a game and get his first cap.
“He’s playing left-back, which is a position that is probably new to him and he’s been brilliant. He’s a great lad as well so everyone is really happy that he has got that international recognition.”
Despite Bannan’s obvious disappointment at having to withdraw from the national squad, it can only be a good thing for Wednesday with the player revelling in his pivotal role, and his influential displays being vital to their promotion hopes.
We think it is fantastic for Wednesday that their in form players are receiving international recognition, and the fact that some of their players can benefit from the week off, should be seen as a good thing.
The last thing that Wednesday need before a crucial few weeks, is a spate of injuries to derail their charge.
What do you think about Bannan’s form at Hillsborough? Do you wish the international break had not arrived? Let us know your thoughts below…