Jones overjoyed with Rodri impact

22 August 2012 10:47

Sheffield Wednesday manager Dave Jones was delighted with the impact new signing Rodri made on his debut in 3-2 win over Birmingham.

The forward, signed on a season-loan loan from Barcelona B, was a constant menace until he was withdrawn on the hour mark to a standing ovation from the Hillsborough faithful.

The former Spain Under-21 international provided the spark the Owls needed in the final third, making up for missing an early chance by sidestepping Steven Caldwell to fire low past Jack Butland in the Birmingham goal to make it 2-0.

"He cramped up at the end, but you can see what he has got," Jones said.

"He has got something you are always trying to teach forwards. You're next step must be forward and he always seems to find that space. When we get him fitter and he adapts we will see a lot more of him.

"He has the European glide and arrogance about him. His control and vision; we are expecting big things from the kid. He is only young and we have an option to buy him. But it was his first game and if he gets better than what he has shown, then I think everyone will be really pleased."

Wednesday dominated the opening period and entered half-time with a two-goal cushion after Rodri followed up Reda Johnson's opener. Birmingham manager Lee Clark turned to Nikola Zigic for inspiration at the interval and, although the big striker halved the deficit, the lively Jermaine Johnson capped off an impressive game with a third for Wednesday.

Clark, who saw Marlon King net a consolation from the penalty spot in injury time, said: "We gave poor goals away and gave ourselves too much to do. I take full responsibility for our formation. We knew their crowd would be behind them so I went with three midfielders to dictate the midfield.

"Hopefully to quieten them down but it gave them momentum."

Source: PA