WINGER’S MOSQUE DEVOTION ‘NOT A SURPRISE’
JEREMY HELAN’S decision to quit football for religious reasons took many people by surprise, but not his manager at Sheffield Wednesday Carlos Carvahal.
The 24-year-old winger – a Manchester City youth product – is a devout Muslim and announced his decision this week.
But Carvahal, who guided the Owls to the Championship play-off final last season, had known something like this might happen for a while after speaking to Helan, who made one appearance for Wednesday this season.
“It’s not new for me. It’s something I’ve talked to him about since the start of the season,” he said.
“When he talked with me, I understood and I just said to him to take some time to be sure about the decision.
“In that period, he was very professional. He’s a nice guy, but I must tell you his head isn’t in football.
“Just the body was here and he tried to do his best, because he’s a good guy and a fantastic professional.
“We must accept his decision.
“I had other long conversations with him and said he has the talent to play football. I did my best to keep him in football.
“But Jeremy’s focus was different – he’s more focused on different things. I understand his head is not here.”
In better news for the Owls, new signing Adam Reach is confident he is going to hit top form soon.
The former Boro man has made three appearances since his deadline day move and showed impressive versatility.
“I’m 23 now and maybe not classed as a young prospect any more,” he said.
“You need to start playing games and put in performances every week.
“Anywhere the manager needs me to play, I will do that. I am always trying to improve, so if I can add another position to my CV then that’s perfect.”