Sheffield Wednesday captain Barry Bannan faces stiff competition to land major League One award

Sheffield Wednesday star Barry Bannan is in the running for the League One player of the year award. The Owls skipper has made the shortlist along with Rotherham United's Michael Smith and Milton Keynes Dons forward Scott Twine.

Bannan, the League One player of the month for March, has been instrumental in Wednesday's promotion charge. The 32-year-old has contributed eight goals and 10 assists in 44 appearances.

Bannan, who has made over 300 appearances for the Owls, was involved in over half of their 17 March goals. Sky Sports’ EFL pundit Don Goodman said: “The consummate professional who continues to wreak havoc in the third tier, Barry Bannan is no stranger to these kinds of accolades, and for good reason.

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“The midfield maestro was everywhere for Sheffield Wednesday in March, having a hand in everything the Owls did well, including three goals of his own to add to his collection. His talent simply doesn’t belong at this level.”

The winner of the League One award will be announced at the star-studded EFL Awards taking place at the Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane, on Sunday, April 24.

Bannan is set to lead the Owls into battle when they travel to MK Dons on Saturday evening. Wednesday are fifth in the table with five matches remaining as they bid to cement a top-six finish.

"It is a tough league," said Bannan. "There are a lot of good teams in it this year. These teams have played in the Championship and above. There are a few big teams who spent money in the summer with the hope of getting promoted.

"It has been a competitive league this year. There are a lot of teams that in this league who probably shouldn't be in this