Ex-Sheffield Wednesday defender Miguel Llera explains why Sam Hutchinson was removed from midfield

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Hutchinson has excelled in Sheffield Wednesday’s back four this season.

Former Sheffield Wednesday defender Miguel Llera has explained the reason behind Sam Hutchinson’s change of position this season.

But for a brief spell covering for Tom Lees, Hutchinson spent the whole of last term playing in midfield as Wednesday finished sixth in the Championship.

However, this time around, Owls head coach Carlos Carvalhal has been using him at centre-back, and the 27-year-old has fast made the position his own – winning the club’s player of the month award for October.

With captain Glenn Loovens missing the start of the campaign through injury, Hutchinson’s relocation looked to have been a temporary solution, but the Dutchman remains on the sidelines despite being back fit.

And according to Llera, who now works at Wednesday’s academy, the decision to move him was purely tactical.

“Carlos is using him (in defence) because he wanted this season to press higher and Sam is really quick,” the former Hillsborough favourite told Sheffield Live TV on Thursday. “He has everything to be a centre-back: He’s good with the ball, he’s aggressive, he reads the game really well.

“The thing that maybe he has to measure is his tackle! At times he gets too many yellow cards and when he’s with one yellow card at times it’s better to drag him out.

“From the manager’s point of view you are feeling under pressure with him on the pitch with one yellow card.”

Despite Llera’s concerns, Hutchinson’s discipline has drastically improved since switching positions, with only three yellow cards and one red – following an unfortunate slip against Bristol City – to his name in 13 Championship outings.

Hutchinson was carded in just under 50 per cent (12) of his 25 league appearances last term.