Cost £0, now set for award-winning season: Moore struck gold on “superb” Sheff Wed ace - opinion

Darren Moore’s decision to bring David Stockdale to Sheffield Wednesday on a free transfer during the summer has proven to be a masterstroke as the 37-year-old continues to prove his worth at Hillsborough.

After starring for Wycombe Wanderers in League One and the Championship in recent seasons, Moore pounced on the opportunity to bring the hugely experienced shot-stopper to the club during the summer, not only strengthening his side but also weakening a potential promotion rival in the process.

Last season saw the veteran ‘keeper save the most shots in League One and also win the golden glove after earning the most clean sheets, so it is easy to see why Moore was so keen to bring him to Hillsborough.

Stockdale looks set to win that award again should the Owls continue their impressive defensive stats from the beginning of this season, as he currently leads the way in League One with eight clean sheets to his name thus far.

If the Owls are to mount an automatic promotion challenge this season then it looks as if Stockdale will be key, as only Bolton Wanderers and Derby County have conceded fewer goals so far this campaign.

Moore has already praised his new goalkeeper for his performances on the pitch and what he adds in the dressing room, saying:

“Stocky has been superb in terms of what he has brought us. He is the centre of attraction in the dressing room. He is a top, top-level goalkeeper in terms of where he has played in his career.

“It has been wonderful for us to bring in someone of his ilk and vast experience in the game. He is enjoying his football and has got a smile on his face. He wants to get better. It is music to my ears when you hear an experienced pro want to get better. Our job is to make him better.

“But in terms of what he has brought us as a team, he has been really, really good. There are no surprises in terms of what he has done here. He is an excellent pro and player. We are really pleased to have him at the club and he has certainly added to the atmosphere here.”

Considering that Stockdale shows no signs of slowing down at 37, a new deal could soon be on the cards for the former Brighton man, especially if he can continue his impressive start to the season and earn back-to-back golden gloves, as that would certainly give the Owls a real chance of promotion back to the Championship.

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