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Sheffield Wednesday’s play-off hopes took a huge hit last weekend as Steve Bruce lost his first match in charge of the Owls.
Bruce had led the club on a 12 match unbeaten streak since taking over but that came to a bitterly disappointing end when his side conceded two very late goals to lose 3-1 against Aston Villa.
But despite that, one man, in particular, stood out and proved that the Wednesday boss may now have a selection dilemma on his hands.
Palmer proves key
Naturally a right back, Palmer was one of the best players on the pitch for Wednesday at the weekend, featuring at left back. It was a performance, despite his inconsistencies in that position in the past, that showed he must continue to play there.
Bruce confirmed last week that Achraf Lazaar was due to return and despite the praise he’s received since he arrived on loan from Newcastle he shouldn’t be granted an automatic spot in the team once he comes back.
Although his only two matches for the Owls have provided positive signs, Palmer deserves perseverance, especially with Dominic Iorfa’s recent displays at right back.
But if there were concerns that the team weren’t as good without Lazaar and Rolando Aarons down their left flank, Palmer is more than showing they can make do without the former.
The 27-year-old has impressed in the last two games and against a potent Villa attack last Saturday completed two aerial duels and won a mightily impressive seven tackles throughout.
Despite losing, it was a terrific performance and gives plenty of evidence as to why Bruce needs to keep him in the side over Lazaar at left back.
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Given the Scot is right footed, playing on the left presents itself with problems. But the way he overcame them particularly last Saturday is deserving of plaudits.
With games against Nottingham Forest and Leeds still to come this week, it’s pivotal Bruce makes the right call.
