BREAKING: Sheffield Wednesday made grave error in January after recent Barry Bannan injury blow

Barry Bannan’s injury proves that Sheffield Wednesday made a huge mistake during the January transfer window.

Sheffield Wednesday entered the January transfer window with a surplus of players who were not contributing significantly, such as Lee Gregory and Reece James, who collectively managed only 21 appearances. Additionally, they were eager to strengthen their squad with players capable of aiding their promotion push, so it was anticipated that there would be both arrivals and departures before the deadline.

The Owls allowed Tyreeq Bakinson to depart the club due to limited playing time and were reportedly considering a move for West Ham’s Conor Coventry to reinforce their midfield. However, Coventry ultimately opted to join Bakinson at Charlton Athletic, leaving Sheffield Wednesday lacking in midfield options.

Subsequently, when George Byers was also loaned out to Blackpool, fans became concerned about the team’s midfield depth for the rest of the season. Although Barry Bannan and Will Vaulks had been performing admirably in recent months, their only backup option, Momo Diaby, seems to be not quite at the same level as his more experienced counterparts.

The injury to Bannan, who was substituted off against Ipswich Town and could be sidelined for weeks, exacerbates the issue further. With limited alternatives available, manager Danny Rohl faces a challenge in patching up his midfield, leading both supporters and Byers himself to question the decision to send him out on loan in January.

Are Sheffield Wednesday missing George Byers?

 

The 27-year-old George Byers, who was described as “excellent,” played a significant role for Sheffield Wednesday this season, making 17 appearances before departing on loan. His absence has been felt, evident by his continued statistical impact even two months after leaving the club. Byers ranks third in interceptions (30) and sixth in passes blocked (21) among the Sheffield Wednesday squad.

While Byers’ presence wouldn’t fully compensate for Barry Bannan’s absence, it could have certainly mitigated the team’s deficiencies. Byers consistently demonstrated commitment and hard work, which could have contributed to the Owls’ quest for safety.

Despite only having two starts this season, Byers would have been thrown into the thick of things in crucial moments of the campaign. Sheffield Wednesday might rue the decision to let him go, especially without securing a replacement. Now, the responsibility falls heavily on Momo Diaby’s shoulders to step up and impress, potentially earning himself a permanent move to the club this summer.