'Driving runs and killer passes' - Grainger shines

"He is class. He is going to be really, really good."

That was a comment by a member of staff, overheard from the training pitch shortly after 17-year-old Will Grainger played a defence-splitting pass for a goal during an 11-a-side session.

Shortly after, he was making a dynamic run into the box before leaping into the air to connect with a cross.

His effort was well saved but the height and air-time of the jump from a player listed at 5ft 8in was eye-catching.

Driving runs, killer passes and a threat in front of goal. Grainger put on a show that left you eager to see more.

Sheffield Wednesday were patient with him last season.

He appeared as a sub in the epic penalty shootout win over a strong Leeds United team in the Carabao Cup.

Grainger came on in the last minute against Brentford in the FA Cup four and a half months later. His first league start only came in the final game of the season.

In between all of this was a substitute appearance against Oxford United where he flashed his potential with a fantastic first senior goal.

He'll only turn 18 in November so the patient approach might be utilised for some time still.

However, his showing in the training camp here in Budapest suggests he might be able to accelerate his development.

"He's a top talent," said Owls manager Henrik Pedersen. "He's very mature in his tactical mindset and his discipline to be part of a senior team with a clear playing philosophy.

"With his movement, he's a really good pressing player. His mind and his understanding is on a high level. His finishing in the last 20 metres in front of the goal is strong.

"We take care of him and we push him. We are very conscious that we have a good young player we want to integrate and he has to be a top player for Sheffield Wednesday."

Pedersen isn't alone in highlighting Grainger's potential. Owls midfielder Barry Bannan, who has seen it all at Hillsborough during his time with the club, was also full of praise.

"He's an amazing talent for this club. Will, because he's a bit younger (than the other academy players in the squad), stands out a bit more," said Bannan.

"I've always been quite close with Will. He's going to be a top, top player if he keeps his feet on the ground and keeps working really hard every day.

"It's just amazing when you see people who support the club, from the city, breaking into the first team and getting to live their dream.

"It makes it that bit extra special so I think everybody in the team's rooting for him and obviously the fans would like to see one of their own coming through again."

Grainger was linked to Everton this summer before committing to a new contract at Wednesday until 2029.

It might end up being one of their best pieces of business.