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Danny Rohl explains why surprise role for 24-year-old Sheffield Wednesday star

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Sheffield Wednesday manager Danny Rohl has explained his reasoning for playing Akin Famewo at left back.

The 24-year-old is primarily a centre back, but has been used out of position at left back by former manager Xisco Munoz, and Rohl in his first two games in charge.

Wednesday do have other options at left back such as Reece James, who joined permanently in the summer from Blackpool after spending last season on loan with the Owls.

They also have Marvin Johnson, who is being brought back into the fold by Rohl after being previously frozen out by Munoz.

Rohl explains his reasoning

Sheffield Wednesday v Lincoln City - Sky Bet League One
Photo by Chris Vaughan – CameraSport via Getty Images

Speaking to the Sheffield Star before Wednesday’s 2-0 win over Rotherham United, Rohl explained his reasoning as to why he has been playing Famewo out of position.

“Akin has trained very well in the last two weeks in this position, and has also shown a big improvement in our style of football. He’s now more front-foot defending, which is what we need, and for me it was about the performances from him and also the performances in training.

“It also depends on what we need for the opponent, and the last two matches we decided to have Akin in that position and I was happy with this decision.”

Famewo understandably poor

Famewo has been criticised for his performances at left back, but it is understandable, albeit not his fault.

Famewo is playing at a higher level on a regular basis, as he has primarily played League One football over the past few seasons.

So coupling that with being out of position, probably will not do him many favours.

James started ahead of him in the win over Rotherham, with Famewo not in the squad.

He has made eleven appearances so far this season for Wednesday.