Ahead of tonight’s clash with QPR at Loftus Road, Carlos Carvalhal has spoken of the importance of Sam Hutchinson.
The Owls head coach says Sam is enjoying a fantastic season and that his characteristics form a vital part of the team.
“All teams need a player with the characteristics of Sam,” Carvalhal said. “We can’t just play with a lot of creative players.
“To give freedom to Ross Wallace, Barry Bannan and Kieran Lee, someone must care about the balance.
“At this moment, Sam is the player doing that, but Jose Semedo and Alex Lopez have also done that fantastic in the past.
“I like these kind of players who understand the tactical environment. They keep the balance.
“They are very important for the coaches and team.”
Hutchinson has featured 11 times for Wednesday this season and is currently enjoying his best run in the side since his switch from Stamford Bridge.
Carvalhal puts that down to the work of the 26-year-old on the training pitch and explained:
“We are doing fantastic work with him as he didn’t play too many games last season. He is training normal now.
“He wants to play Tuesday and Friday but I must decide, not him. He is a player that I must care for and protect him sometimes in training.
“He answers with a very good attitude in the game and is having a fantastic season. I am very happy with what he is doing.
“He gives a lot of energy to the team, but at the same time is a very good player.”