Former Premier League reserve Joe Lumley had another monotonous league season shaping up for him, but out of nowhere, the 30-year-old can enjoy standing closer to the net than the coach's dugout.
From Premier League's bright nights to wearing a reserve cap, many Southampton stars have scaled this journey in the past five months. Joe Aribo is one less lucky example, who launched much precise efforts on goal than Will Still's attackers do outside training.
To showcase his expertise, Aribo needs to grace the competitive field again. Thinking about the destination shouldn't be on the 30-year-old's mind map, as when openings arise, they come uncalled and bizarre like Joe Lumley's.
The moment he set foot at Bristol City, Lumley must have known he would command some spotlight in the days Southampton would battle Bristol. But come Monday, and his newer fans cast reserve looks on him.
Ex-Southampton deputy Lumley joins forces with Sheffield Wednesday
Hence, his midweek participation was almost written off but thanks to a keeping scarcity at Sheffield Wednesday, Lumley will most likely start behind the sticks.
As quoted by Sky Sports: "Sheffield Wednesday have signed experienced goalkeeper Joe Lumley on a seven-day emergency loan from Bristol City."
To be honest, Lumley has made multiple career moments since showing up at St. Mary's. He tasted his only Premier League promotion to date in the Saints kit, and then slotted in for Aaron Ramsdale in the top-flight.
For someone who has been constrained to EFL divisions all his professional life, the Premier League remains a glamorous dream. And Lumley can feel glad for making the cut there, irrespective of not being the best five glovesman in every campaign spent in the non-first division tiers.
For now, let's hope the Championship gods stay biased towards Lumley and make his Wednesday stint a happy tale to tell.