Carlos Carvalhal has praised Barry Bannan, insisting that the midfielder has improved during his time with Sheffield Wednesday, reports the club’s official Twitter feed.

Bannan arrived at Hillsborough during the same summer as Carvalhal, and has been crucial in helping Wednesday achieve back-to-back top-six finishes in the Sky Bet Championship.

Carvalhal has insisted that Bannan has improved as a player since his arrival in South Yorkshire, hailing the Scottish international as a special talent, he said: “Barry Bannan is a very special player, we understand his quality, talent and he has upgraded as a player during his time here.”

Bannan made his 100th appearance for Sheffield Wednesday against Leeds United prior to the international break, with the 27-year-old putting in a classy display from midfield.

Carvalhal opted to use Bannan from the left of midfield, and the Scot was influential in helping the Owls to a much-needed 3-0 victory over their Yorkshire rivals.

That result sent Wednesday into last week’s international break in 12th, four points outside the Championship’s play-off zone.

The Owls return to action this weekend when they visit Bolton Wanderers, who are currently bottom of the Championship table and without a victory.

Carvalhal has confirmed that Jack Hunt, Sam Hutchinson and Glenn Loovens are all available for the clash.

The Verdict

Bannan was once again proving how important he is to Sheffield Wednesday before the international break, with his performance against Leeds of the highest level.

If the Scottish international can maintain that level of performance this weekend, Bolton will struggle to stop Carvalhal’s side.

In Fernando Forestieri’s continued absence, Bannan could be key to helping Wednesday stay in the hunt for promotion, with the midfielder now Wednesday’s main creative cog.

Sheffield Wednesday fans… Let us know your thoughts!

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