Lucas set for reserve return - exclusive

Last updated : 26 April 2005 By Andy Parsons

Former Preston star Lucas last played for The Owls in the 3-2 win against Blackpool but got taken off early with a knee problem.

But despite Lucas being injured twice this season and damaging his ligaments last season at Port Vale, his spells on the sidelines do not bother him as he insists he is lucky to be playing professionally in the first place.

He told Footymad: "I am playing a reserve game against Bradford at Hillsborough and I will take it from there, hopefully everything will be ok and I will be able to declare myself fit for the Hull game.

"If I do declare myself fit after the reserve game then it’s up to the gaffer who will decide if I am ready to play or not. It’s not up to me but I just want to get fit as soon as possible and take things from there."

On his bad luck, Lucas adds: "Injuries happen in football and they can get you down but on the other side of the coin I have to realise how lucky I am to be a professional footballer playing for a big club like Sheffield Wednesday.

"My younger brother when he’s had a few drinks leaves me messages on my phone reminding me that I play for Wednesday and he can’t get it out of his head sometimes but the fact of the matter is that I am very lucky to be playing for a club like this and I am not going to let a few injuries change my mind on that!

"It is hard watching games when you are not involved. Some players like it but I don’t. The thing I love mainly about being a footballer is the thrill of running out on a Saturday afternoon and playing in front of 22,000 people. That’s why you get into being a footballer as a kid, it’s not really a money thing but you are motivated by doing well for your club."

Other good news in the Lucas household this week is that he has become a father for the first time and his young son is doing well.

"We are really chuffed at the moment," he beams. "We are glad that everything went well in the end and he seems to be fit and healthy. He’s been home now for three or four days and sleeping a bit better so things are not too bad."