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Q & A : Sheffield Wednesday

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Today we speak to Andy Parsons, devoted Owls fan and editor of Sheffield Wednesday Mad ahead of this weekend’s clash.

1) Last time we visited the blue part of Sheffield it was a memorable day for us, since then how have the Owls faired, has there been more ups than downs?

Yeah I would agree with that. I remember staying behind on the kop to watch your lads celebrate and I thought to myself – I wish that was us. But going up via the play-offs the season afterwards was fantastic. Best way to go up in my eyes but it’s a lottery. Since that day in Cardiff we have struggled to adapt to the Championship but we are getting there. We have been hit by injuries and it’s hard to get players in at times but I am sure that next season will be more prosperous!

2) When we were promoted many of our fans were delighted but remained optimistic that we had what was needed for a top half finish- we finished mid-table, like we look like doing this season. What were Wednesday’s aim’s at the start of the season?

Survival I think. I speak to the players on a regular basis and they all said at the start of the season that staying up would be an achievement. I thought that we would do better but looking at the table now it’s clear to see we are going through a bad run. But you always have to look above and forget what’s below you.

3) It’s the first time in a few years you seem to have had a bit of consistancy at the club, what has Paul Sturrock brought to the club?

He has brought a bit of a will to win and determination. He is the first to admit he has made mistakes this season but he is the man for the job no question. Turner brought in the players a few years ago, and Sturrock got the best out of them. Now if he can get the best of out the players he has brought to the club I think we will go from strength to strength.

4)Is there a plan in place for Wednesday? In 5 years playing Premiership football? Or are you just taking every season as it comes?

I think this season was to survive, next season was to consolidate and the season afterwards was for a promotion push. We all know it never works that way and it all depends on money. Turner said that we would be playing in Europe in five years time when he was appointed – we did – we have played in Wales and in Ibiza! But we get the backing from the fans, we just have to attract the players, pay the wages and I am sure the rest will take care of itself.

5) Who will be the unsung heroes to watch out for when we play on Saturday?

I would like to say Richard Wood but I don’t think he will be fit. So Graham Coughlan, who has been immense since coming to the club will be the man to lead the team. Deon Burton has played well but not scored since his arrival from Rotherham United so hopefully he continues his good form and gets a goal.

6) Who has been your Player of the Season up until Saturday?

Coughlan has been outstanding, so has Frank Simek at right-back. We are missing John Hills as well who is one of Sturrock’s most underrated signings by far.

7) What style of football to Wednesday play at home?

Usually with a high tempo and quite direct at times. We have good passers and wingers but don’t seem to use them as often as we should. We don’t let many goals in at home though so hopefully we can build from the back. To be honest I don’t care how we play as long as we win!

8) What do you expect from QPR? Who will stand out?

I have always rated Gareth Ainsworth, the sort of player who can create things from nothing and get his foot in too. Danny Shittu and Martin Rowlands have always impressed me too. But QPR have some good players and I hope we are up for the task.

9) if you could change one thing about your season what would it have been?

The position!!!!! And the fact our club can’t attract any players. Kevin Horlock went to Doncaster on loan and we weren’t even in for him, he would have been perfect. We couldn’t pay Dennis Wise’s wages – very disappointing!

10) Saturday’s prediction?

I’m always wrong when I predict results, not got one right all season so I predict a Wednesday loss – touch wood I keep on with my current form! Seriously though it is the biggest game of the season and we will be up for it.

So there you have it, it’s one of their biggest games of the season, Frankie Simek is a contender for Player Of The Season at Hillsborough and they have identified ‘Wild Thing’ as the key man in our side.

VITAL QPR- VITAL NEWS FOR VITAL SUPPORTERS!

Thanks to Andy Parsons, editor of Sheffield Wednesday Mad.

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