Missing out on promotion to the Championship after being knocked out of the League One play-offs in the semi-final against Sunderland, it proved to be quite a productive summer of recruitment at Sheffield Wednesday. 

Adding a mix of more youthful talent and the experience that is needed to mount a promotion push, it is fair to say that David Stockdale fits the latter category. 

The 37-year-old has accumulated experience all the way throughout England's top five divisions, playing nearly 400 matches in the Football League. 

Sharing his thoughts on Stockdale's start to life at Hillsborough, Carlton Palmer told Football League World"Five clean sheets in 10 games, it's a very good solid start for his career at Sheffield Wednesday. 

"He brings with him that experience of knowing how to deal with pressure at clubs because obviously, there's big pressure on Sheffield Wednesday this season to get promoted. 

 

 

"They've conceded 10 goals. None of them can be attributed to David."

The verdict 

Stockdale's presence does not only benefit the Owls on the pitch but he is vital off it too. 

Not only will his experience prove to be invaluable for the younger members of the squad, but he is also a commanding presence and a natural leader. 

Naturally, all eyes are placed on the likes of Josh Windass, Michael Smith and Barry Bannan, but if Sheffield Wednesday are to win promotion this season, Stockdale will likely play an integral part in that. 

Finding himself in teams where the ambition is promotion before, Stockdale will be a calming influence, which could help the Owls through any difficult times they have to go through.