Nottingham Forest v Sheffield Wednesday: Simek starts late bid for World Cup place

The Sheffield Wednesday and United States international has yet to be offered a new deal at Hillsborough and is running out of time to secure a ticket for the World Cup.

Only three years ago, Simek was a shining star having burst onto the international stage, and a move to the Premier League looked on the cards.

Now, after a lengthy battle to recover from a serious ankle injury, Simek is virtually starting all over again.

With injury ruling out Lewis Buxton at Nottingham Forest, Simek will start his first game under new manager Alan Irvine.

Ironically, Simek attracted interest from Everton when Irvine was assistant manager at Goodison Park.

"It's not long ago that people from the Premier League were watching Frankie and thinking about him as a player who might make the step up," admitted Irvine. "He's a very good player, a very good professional, and a fit lad. I have said all along that, when players get in, it's up to them to grab their chance.

"And, until we know what division we are going to be in next season, it is difficult to make any decisions on contracts."

Simek, 25, said: "It has been disappointing not to be in the team but this is a good opportunity. The most important thing is helping the team in what they are doing."