Sheffield Wednesday defender Tom Lees has backed teammates Daniel Pudil and Frederico Venancio to earn new deals at Hillsborough after their recent performances.

The experienced Pudil's current deal runs out in the summer whilst Venancio is on a season-long loan from Vitoria Setubal, and both players have made it clear that they would like to stay with the Yorkshire club.

And, Lees told the Sheffield Star that the duo were doing all they could to stay with the side for next season.

"They have shown in the last few weeks, they are playing well. They have certainly put themselves in contention."

"I don’t think they could have been doing much more so it’s up to the manager and the club really; what they see and what their policy is and how they do it."

Both Pudil and Venancio have featured regularly in recent months as part of Jos Luhukay's three-man defence, which has brought positive results.

The comfortable 3-0 win over Reading last time out made it five wins in seven games for the Owls ahead of this weekends visit to champions Wolves.

The Verdict

That has been a major improvement by Wednesday in the last month or so and everyone connected with the club deserves credit for that.

That includes Pudil and Venancio who have been part of a more solid, resolute Owls defence that is providing the side with a strong base.

The pair will appreciate Lees' comments however it will all depend on manager Luhukay and what he wants from his team next season.

Thoughts, Wednesday fans? Should you keep these players on? Let us know in the comments below.