Time is running out for Sheffield Wednesday’s Jacob Butterfield to cement future at club

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Sheffield Wednesday’s Jacob Butterfield has disappointed on loan from Derby County.

Time is running out for on loan midfielder Jacob Butterfield to earn a permanent deal at Sheffield Wednesday as he struggles to make an impact with the Yorkshire club.

The former Huddersfield Town man joined the Owls from fellow Championship club Derby County on loan until the end of the season, with forward Sam Winnall heading in the other direction.

Butterfield suggested a preference of playing at Hillsborough upon his switch, stating that the Owls’ passing game would suit his style of play and help him once again become a top player at Championship level.

Unfortunately for the Derby midfielder, Wednesday have endured a disappointing campaign which prompted former boss Carlos Carvalhal to be replaced by former Hertha BSC manager Jos Luhukay.

The change in manager has seen a change in playing style (less possession for possession’s sake) and mentality (more defensive), and one which no doubt hinders Butterfield’s better qualities.

The 27-year-old has had minutes on the pitch, largely due to injuries to the likes of Kieran Lee, Barry Bannan and Sam Hutchinson, but he has failed to make the most of his opportunities to shine.

Butterfield had a nightmare in the 3-1 home defeat to Birmingham City, though his latest outing against Swansea City in the FA Cup was better and will offer him hope going into the latter stages of the season.

It is vitally important he stamps his mark on the team now if he wishes to remain with the Owls, and he may get another chance soon after missing the latest 2-1 defeat to Millwall with fellow midfielder David Jones under-performing.

Derby are unlikely to count on Butterfield’s services next term, and with his deal running out in the summer of 2019 the Rams may be willing to sell him on the cheap in order to get him off the wage bill.

So far Wednesday fans are underwhelmed with the player’s performances, therefore he needs to up his game over the next three months and demonstrate exactly why the Rams originally paid near £5 million to sign him.