Former Sheffield Wednesday midfielder Carlton Palmer says that the Owls’ deadline day signings of Jeff Hendrick and John Buckley are useful signings, albeit not spectacular signings.
Sheffield Wednesday had themselves a busy end to the summer transfer window.
They brought in midfield duo Hendrick and Buckley on loan from Newcastle United and Blackburn Rovers respectively, leaving Xisco Munoz’s side with a total of 12 summer signings.
The signing of Buckley in particular seems like a very good bit of business for the club, whilst the addition of a tried and tested Hendrick can only bolster the club’s survival credentials this season.
But speaking to Football League World, ex-Wednesday man Palmer has said that; whilst both players are useful signings, they’re not ‘top-drawer’ signings.
Palmer said:
“Buckley has fallen down the pecking order at Blackburn starting only 21 games last season, but at 23, has played over 100 Championship games, so is a useful acquisition.”
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He added:
“Hendrick is 31, is experienced, and has a lot of Championship experience. He spent last season out on loan at Reading playing 45 league games. Although they were relegated, that was due to the six point deduction.
“So, [Hendrick is] another useful acquisition. Both are not top-drawer signings, but useful additions to the squad.”
Top-drawer? Or not?
For Wednesday, the signings of Hendrick and Buckley are very good, contrary to the opinion of Palmer.
Whilst Munoz may still be light in other positions and lacking quality in some, it’s fairly safe to say that the Owls’ midfield ranks are now well-stocked in bodies and quality.
Hendrick and Buckley are two proven names at Championship level and both will go a long way in helping Wednesday to stay in the second tier this season.
Munoz now needs to find a way of getting all of his best players in the side and getting the most out of them at the same time.
It’s a nice problem to have, with Munoz now readying his side for a Championship clash v Ipswich Town later this month.