100 Not Out For Frankie

Saturday's vital clash with Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park will bring about a milestone not seen too many times in today's game - with American right-back Frank Simek clocking up a century of league starts for the club.

Simek would have cracked the milestone during the Owls' trip to Southampton last week had he not been injured, and in the clash with Coventry City on Saturday had the game not been abandoned due to a waterlogged pitch.

But the American is determined to meet his goal, and is hopeful Saturday's trip will not only result in a crucial three points for the Owls, but also 100 appearances for one of the fans' favourites down at Hillsborough.

'To think I have started 100 games is amazing, it's gone by so fast. Hopefully there will be many more to come.' Simek told the official SWFC website.

'I went down to Southampton and it was a late decision on the day of the game to pull me out. The knee is feeling a lot better now, thankfully. I jarred it a couple of weeks ago and it took a while to settle down but it's okay now and I'm raring to go.'

And Wednesday fans will also be hoping the right-back is raring to go, and also that he'll be clocking up many more starts in the famous blue and white shirt with rumours linking the youngster with a move elsewhere in the January transfer window, with Everton again linked with his services.

Simek was brought to the club under former boss Paul Sturrock, and has fast become a fans' favourite at S6 after coming through the Arsenal youth ranks, for his no-nonsense, never-say-die attitude.