MIDFIELDER Shea Charles insists it is "really important" that he plays regular minutes at Championship level this season.

The Northern Ireland international has joined Sheffield Wednesday on a season-long loan for consistent minutes in his second full season as a senior player.

Charles, 20, played 32 league games in his debut season at Saints but lost his place in the squad following midfield additions this summer.

Charles made his Wednesday debut last weekend in a 3-0 defeat at Millwall but drew praise from supporters for his performance.

In joining the Owls, Manchester City academy graduate Charles has linked up with his younger brother Pierce - Wednesday's backup keeper.

“I heard of the interest a couple of weeks ago. With my brother being here, I spoke to him and he had nothing but good things to say," said Charles.

“I was looking to go out on loan this season and I think this is a great club and a great manager to work under.

“I think my brother was surprised - we are both happy with it. We have been together with Northern Ireland. That was a proud moment.

Shea Charles explained he opted for a loan to improve his chances of starting for Northern IrelandShea Charles explained he opted for a loan to improve his chances of starting for Northern Ireland (Image: PA)
“We used to have a lot of competition in the back garden, him being in net and me scoring against him. We have grown up together at City. It’s good to be back together.”

Charles will now be working under former Southampton assistant Danny Rohl, who worked under Ralph Hasenhuttl between December 2018 and August 2019.

Rohl pulled off an unlikely great escape at Wednesday last season having avoided relegation despite them being winless in the first 10 games when he took over.

“I spoke to the manager and I got a good feeling about him and I hope he got a good feeling about me," Charles added.

“I watched quite a few games last season with my brother being here. When Danny came in, I liked the way he played. It’s good football and hopefully, we can push on.

“I’d like to think (I can bring a lot to this team). Playing in the Championship last season, I learned a lot. Playing Championship football all the time is really important for me.”