Pelupessy is the only played signed by the current Sheffield Wednesday manager at Hillsborough.
Jos Luhukay has defended Joey Pelupessy after the Sheffield Wednesday midfielder’s early-season displays drew criticism from some fans.
Pelupessy became the first and only signing of Luhukay’s reign when he moved to Hillsborough from Heracles Almelo shortly after his manager’s arrival in January.
And the 25-year-old has since established himself as a regular in the Owls’ team, in what has been a largely difficult period.
But, just two games in to the new season, some Sheffield Wednesday supporters are losing faith.
When asked about Pelupessy’s recent form ahead of Thursday’s EFL Cup tie at Sunderland, however, Luhukay told Sheffield Wednesday’s official Facebook account: “For me, Joey is absolutely a team player. He maybe doesn’t give himself a lot of credit, but from us gets a lot.
“He plays in a position where he must always keep an eye on the defensive situation in the midfield. He must try to give balance and he must try to win balls for us.
“His partner on the left side, Barry (Bannan), is a totally different player, so he also plays for Barry, so that Barry can play more offensively and Joey is more the defender midfielder.
“So yeah, we are very happy with him.”
With Sam Hutchinson reverting to a central defensive role against Hull City on Saturday, Sheffield Wednesday are short of natural Pelupessy alternatives.
David Jones has failed to feature in a matchday squad since early April – although Luhukay insists he is still part of his plans – while Alex Hunt – who was named on the bench against Hull – is awaiting his senior debut at the age of 18.
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