Sheffield Wednesday: Young guns urged to seize Owls chance

The Dutchman has taken a keen interest in the academy since taking over the reins at the start of January.

He has handed first-team debuts to the likes of Jordan Thorniley, Frederik Nielsen, and Sean Clare as well as naming Connor Kirby and Ash Baker in a number of a matchday squads.

Connor O’Grady and Jack Stobbs have also been given opportunities to impress.

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With the Owls still missing a whole host of senior players due to injury, Luhukay may turn to youth again when they entertain Reading this weekend.

Wednesday Under-23s manager Neil Thompson told The Star: “It’s a great motivating factor for all the young players at the club.

“If you are good enough, there is an opportunity there to play but you have got to go out and show it.

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“We can do all the coaching in the world but when the whistle blows they have got to put their foot down on the pedal and perform.

“They have to make the right decisions at the right time and that is what the manager is looking for. It is about applying yourself and being an intelligent footballer and showing your capable of playing Championship football.”

Another Wednesday youngster who is earning rave reviews at Under-18s level is Alex Hunt. The midfielder, who penned a pro contract with the Owls two months ago, has caught the eye and was shortlisted for the Championship Apprentice of the Year award at the EFL Awards, which took place in London last night. He was pipped to the prize by Fulham star Ryan Sessegnon.

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