Brentford v Sheff Weds: Blissful Loovens to mount new challenge

Sheffield Wednesday captain Glenn Loovens, left, congratulates Lewis McGugan on his winning goal against Newcastle (Picture: Steve Ellis).

But, for Glenn Loovens, the past two weeks have been bliss thanks to the Sheffield Wednesday defender finally putting behind him an ankle problem that has been an irritating feature of 2015.

It is a major relief for the 32-year-old, who was a key figure in the midweek Capital One Cup victory at Premier League Newcastle United.

“The injury happened in the first pre-season game. It wouldn’t go away so I said I needed to take a bit of time off to get it sorted.

“I have trained for the past two weeks, which is something that hasn’t happened for the past seven months. That says it all.

“I am delighted with that and playing the full 90 minutes. I feel really good now and am getting stronger with every training session.”

Loovens, despite his masterful display at the back alongside Tom Lees, may have to drop to the bench today at Brentford.

Carlos Carvalhal made 10 changes at St James’ Park with the trip to Griffin Park in mind and Michael Turner is expected to return to the back four.

Despite that, the Owls’ Dutch defender believes the momentum of that win against Steve McClaren’s side can only help the Championship club in the capital.

He said: “We were confident going into the Cup game because we had been playing well. We have to now take this into our league campaign, starting with Brentford.

“A lot has happened here and a lot of new players have come in. It takes time in a situation like that. I think we are finding the right balance at the moment.

“Players have been coming in and going out but people are taking on the role well.”

Wednesday’s win at Newcastle has earned a glamour fourth round tie at home to Arsenal. Loovens added: “Arsenal is a good draw, it will be tough but something to look forward to. Hillsborough will be great.

“Not only for us but the fans it is something to look forward to. It is a game of football and we will enjoy it, no matter who we play.

“Newcastle was a great night. We created a few chances before the goal and I think we got our tactics right. All the boys played as a team and stuck to our gameplan.

“I am sure the boys will be up for Arsenal but we have plenty of important league games coming up. Brentford is going to be tough and we have to be prepared.”