Carlton Palmer gives decisive verdict on Barry Bannan's Sheffield Wednesday future

Star man Barry Bannan is not "going anywhere" this summer. That is the verdict of Sheffield Wednesday great Carlton Palmer.

Midfield playmaker Bannan was instrumental in the Owls qualifying for the League One play-offs in the 2021/22 season. The Wednesday captain produced a series of outstanding performances to help Wednesday finish fourth after a gruelling campaign.

Bannan was named the club's player of the year after contributing nine goals and 12 assists. He also made the three-man shortlist for the League One player of the year prize.

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But some Wednesdayites fear Bannan could leave after their promotion near-miss. There is a strong chance the 32-year-old, who is contracted to the club until the summer of 2023, will attract Championship interest.

Palmer told Football League World: "I know Barry. He’s a lovely kid.

“He’s a nice bloke. He’s 100% Sheffield Wednesday, he’s brilliant for Sheffield Wednesday.

“But let’s not kid ourselves, who is going to pay him £27k a week? He isn’t going anywhere.

“So him saying, ‘Oh, I’m going to commit to staying at Sheffield Wednesday.’ Yes, other clubs will be interested in him, but who’s going to pay him 27 grand a week.

“With all due respect, he’s better than the league. He’s miles better. He’s been Sheffield Wednesday’s best performer.

“He’s been brilliant since he came to Sheffield Wednesday, but he’s playing in League one, right. And he’s earning that amount of money. He’s not going anywhere.”