Why Forestieri is the Championship signing of the season

August 2015 saw Forestieri arrive at S6, penning a four-year deal from Watford for a fee believed to be around £3 million. The energetic Argentine has certainly impressed from day one with dazzling and masterful performances. Fernando is certainly living up to, if not surpassing, the expectations of the fans, seemingly making his considerable transfer fee look like a steal.

The Owls’ number 45 is most effective playing just behind main striker. I am somewhat impressed with Forestieri’s work rate off the ball to apply pressure on the opposition defence, ultimately causing endless confusion, as well as his skill and creativity on the ball amongst his ability to chip in with the odd goal.

‘Fessi’ most recently won the PFA Fans’ Player of the Month for November, and has also been included in a couple of Championship Team of the Weeks throughout his early Sheffield Wednesday career.

Recent standout performances that stick to mind include a 3-1 victory against Huddersfield, whereby in the 78th minute Fernando took the game by the scruff of the next to complete a hat-trick of assists in just over a 12-minute period. Victory against Nottingham Forest was also thanks to the 5’7″ Argentine, as he smashed an awkward shot past the helpless Evtimov in the 68th minute.

Forestieri celebrates after scoring against Nottingham Forest.

Forestieri’s winning mentality has certainly seen him become a favourite of mine. At only 25 years of age, he would not be out of his depth playing in the Premier League. I would love to see him play in the top-flight with the Owls in the near future – an ongoing short term promotion bid had been set by Wednesday chairman Dejphon Chansiri.

Unfortunately, Fernando was cup tied against Premier League opposition Newcastle, Arsenal and Stoke respectively in the Capital One Cup. However, I genuinely believe we have acquired a Premiere League talent to play in the Championship.

I firmly believe Forestieri is the Championship signing of the season so far based on value and ability. Here are his current statistics;

Appearances: 13
Goals: 5
Assists: 3
Shots per game: 3.1
Pass success: 82.8%
Passes per game: 26.5
Shots outside of box: 1.5
Shots inside of box: 1.5
(Source: whoscored.com)

Without doubt, Forestieri’s stats provide evidence of a successful current campaign. He has already become an invaluable member of the first team squad at Hillsborough and I don’t see any reason why this will not continue. If anything I expect more electrifying and refined performances as the season progresses.

Great work Fernando, you are my Championship signing of the season…

You can follow Fernando Forestieri on Twitter @Forestieri45

WAWAW