After suffering a hamstring injury during a 1-0 victory over Portsmouth in March, Sheffield Wednesday midfielder George Byers was sidelined for the remainder of the season. Yesterday he returned to action.
The Owls faced National League outfit Chesterfield in pre-season on Tuesday evening, running out 2-1 winners thanks to a Lee Gregroy brace. The main talking point, however, was Byers’ appearance.
Wednesday supporters provided him with an excellent ovation as he was substituted on in the 79th minute, something that the 27-year-old was ‘taken aback’ by.
“It means a lot,” said Byers, speaking to Joe Crann.
“I was taken aback a bit by the reception I got when I came on, it was really nice. A really nice touch.
“Obviously we have got a good relationship with the fans, and personally I do, so it is always nice to hear that big round of applause and stuff like that because obviously I have been out for a while.
“[I am] really pleased, really humbled. Hopefully this season can repay them again with good football, good performances, and [we] kick on.”
Byers had a few injury struggles last season, but still managed 29 appearances for the Owls in all competitions as he picked up six goals and three assists.
A firm fan favourite amongst the Wednesday faithful, the former Scotland youth international has been on the Owls’ books for two years now since signing from Swansea City and has made 56 appearances in total.
What did Munoz say to Byers?
Byers revealed after the match that new boss Xisco Munoz told him to take it easy in his ten minute outing, but he hinted towards taking no notice of that.
“When you are out in the game situation, you do not want really think about that,” said the midfielder.
“You just want to crack on and get down to work, so that is what I tried to do.
“Obviously the fitter I get, the stronger I am going to be. [I am] just looking forward to the games coming up and the training we have got.”
It is certainly a big boost for Wednesday having Byers back in the fold, one of many players within their ranks with Championship experience, he could have a big part to play next season.