Owls lifted by Irvine influence

by Dan_the_Owl Wed 13 Jan - 5:18:01

From the Star;

http://www.thestar.co.uk/sportheadlines/Sheffield-Wednesday-lifted-by-Irvine.5973522.jp

ALAN Irvine is raising Wednesday spirits as they focus on Saturday's South Yorkshire derby at Barnsley, says Steve Watson.
The Owls former club captain says that the new manager is one of the most highly regarded coaches in football and will keep training sessions enjoyable.

Watson joined in a workout on the Hillsborough pitch yesterday - still awaiting a chat with Irvine about whether or not he will play an official role on the backroom staff, having been helping caretaker boss Sean McAuley informally.

Watson was playing at Newcastle and Everton when Irvine was a coach there. "He's a fantastic coach; our lads are going to enjoy his sessions," he said.

"Personally, I'm in no rush, and the most important thing this week is our game at Barnsley. If nothing else, I'm going to be learning from Alan, even if it's advice about the best way to go now, here or somewhere else."

Akpo Sodje has returned to Hillsborough at the end of his two months on loan with Charlton but his future is still in doubt.

It is understood that the Owls are waiting to see if they will be tempted by an offer from the Addicks to keep the striker. If Sodje goes, it is almost certain an Irvine signing would follow.

by Dan_the_Owl Wed 13 Jan - 5:26:46

I'm not one to get carried away, and I'll of course be judging Irvine on results, but it's a good sign if the players are enjoying the training and feeling rejuvenated. It's only natural that there should be a bit of a buzz around the place with a new manager in place, but nonetheless.

Great to see Steve Watson sticking around for now. I reckon Irvine (with their previous association at both Newcastle and Everton) will be looking at making his stay permanent. His experience and the respect he commanded from the squad as club captain can only be beneficial.

by The Wednesday Thu 14 Jan - 0:16:05

It would be great to see Steve Watson here on a permanent basis again. He could have cut it as a player for one last season if he hadn't been injured, so being here as a coach is the next best thing.

by **hoolahoop** Thu 14 Jan - 4:53:22

The Wednesday wrote:It would be great to see Steve Watson here on a permanent basis again. He could have cut it as a player for one last season if he hadn't been injured, so being here as a coach is the next best thing.

These next 4 weeks are going to be crucial to your survival, question is can he get it to 'click' fast enough.?........I hope so. Wink

by Dan_the_Owl Thu 14 Jan - 9:19:37

hoolahoop wrote:These next 4 weeks are going to be crucial to your survival, question is can he get it to 'click' fast enough.?........I hope so.

I really hope so! I think the fact that urgency is required in turning the situation around is just another good reason why Steve Watson should be kept on. He's familiar with the squad, well liked by the fans, and respected by the players. Could definitely help to smooth the transition into the (hopefully long-lived) Alan Irvine era.

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