George Byers earned his first league start for Port Vale in their 4-1 win over Newport County.
The midfielder was a fan favourite during Sheffield Wednesday’s time in League One, but found his minutes limited upon promotion.
Byers was sent out on loan to Blackpool in the second half of last season, before he was named as one of eight players who left the club on a free transfer.
He went onto drop down two divisions to join Port Vale, who were relegated after finishing 23rd in League One.
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Byers makes first League Two start since leaving Sheffield Wednesday
Byers was forced to wait for his first start in League Two though, having made two cameo appearances in defeats to Barrow and Doncaster Rovers.
The 28-year-old was then named in the starting line-up as they travelled to Newport yesterday, playing his part as they thrashed the Welsh club in their own back garden.
Byers failed to score or assist for The Valiants, but still managed to impress at his new club.
In what was a thrilling game in which the hosts went down to nine men, Byers was awarded a 7 rating by WhoScored.
He enjoyed 91% passing accuracy, had one shot and won 75% of his duels. He also made three clearances and five tackles – more than any other player on the pitch.
Byers will hope he has now done enough to retain his place in the team going forward.
Could the midfielder have still made an impact in the Championship?
The Owls were concerned when they allowed him to leave on loan in January, with Danny Rohl having limited options in the middle of the park at the time.
He arguably would have made a positive impact in their bid for survival, but ultimately they managed without him.
Rohl may wish he had another defensive midfielder now though, having seen his team dominated in the middle in their past three fixtures.
Byers surely wouldn’t have been the answer though and, while a good signing for League Two, there is a reason why he isn’t playing Championship football.
Fans may wish Will Vaulks was still at the club though, given how important he was last term.
Wednesday certainly can’t afford to look back at their mistakes though and there is still plenty of time for Shea Charles and Nathaniel Chalobah to make their mark at Hillsborough.