Ross Wallace
{{short description|Scottish footballer}}
{{Use British English|date=September 2015}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2022}}
{{Infobox football biography
| name = Ross Wallace
| image = Ross wallace.jpg
| upright =
| caption = Wallace playing for Sunderland in 2007
| full_name = Ross Wallace{{cite book | editor-first = Barry J. | editor-last = Hugman | title = The PFA Footballers' Who's Who 2010–11 | year = 2010 | publisher = Mainstream Publishing | location = Edinburgh | isbn = 978-1-84596-601-0 | page = 427 }}
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1985|5|23|df=y}}
| birth_place = Dundee, Scotland
| height = {{height|ft=5|in=6}}{{cite book|editor1-first=Glenda|editor1-last=Rollin|editor2-first=Jack|editor2-last=Rollin|title=Sky Sports Football Yearbook 2012–2013|year=2012|publisher=Headline|location=London|isbn=978-0-7553-6356-8|page=445|edition=43rd}}
| position = Winger
| currentclub = Fleetwood Town (first-team coach)
| youthyears1= {{0|0000}}–2002
| youthclubs1= Celtic
| years1 = 2002–2006 | clubs1 = Celtic | caps1 = 37 | goals1 = 1
| years2 = 2006–2009 | clubs2 = Sunderland | caps2 = 53 | goals2 = 8
| years3 = 2008–2009 | clubs3 = → Preston North End (loan) | caps3 = 23 | goals3 = 3
| years4 = 2009–2010 | clubs4 = Preston North End | caps4 = 57 | goals4 = 9
| years5 = 2010–2015 | clubs5 = Burnley | caps5 = 149 | goals5 = 12
| years6 = 2015–2018 | clubs6 = Sheffield Wednesday | caps6 = 108 | goals6 = 10
| years7 = 2018–2019 | clubs7 = Fleetwood Town | caps7 = 39 | goals7 = 1
| years8 = 2020 | clubs8 = St Mirren | caps8 = 3 | goals8 = 0
| totalcaps = 469
| totalgoals = 44
| nationalyears1 = 2002
| nationalteam1 = Scotland U18
| nationalcaps1 = 2
| nationalgoals1 = 0
| nationalyears2 = 2003–2004
| nationalteam2 = Scotland U19
| nationalcaps2 = 7
| nationalgoals2 = 3
| nationalyears3 = 2004–2006
| nationalteam3 = Scotland U21
| nationalcaps3 = 4
| nationalgoals3 = 0
| nationalyears4 = 2007
| nationalteam4 = Scotland B
| nationalcaps4 = 1
| nationalgoals4 = 0
| nationalyears5 = 2009
| nationalteam5 = Scotland
| nationalcaps5 = 1
| nationalgoals5 = 0
}}
Ross Wallace (born 23 May 1985) is a Scottish former professional footballer who played as a winger. He played for Celtic, Sunderland, Preston North End, Burnley, Sheffield Wednesday, Fleetwood Town, and once played in a full international match for Scotland. After retiring from professional football, Wallace re–joined Burnley as an assistant coach of the youth team and is currently first-team coach at Fleetwood Town.
Club career
=Celtic=
Born in Dundee, Wallace started his career with Celtic and progressed through the club's youth system. He made his Celtic debut, coming on as a 68th-minute substitute, in a 4–2 win against Inverness Caledonian Thistle in the third round of the Scottish League Cup on 27 October 2002.{{cite news|title=Hartson lays Inverness ghost|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/scotland/2351369.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=27 October 2002|access-date=9 April 2021}} With one appearance made in the 2002–03 season, Wallace signed his first professional contract with the club on 23 June 2003 on a four-year deal.{{cite news|title=Wallace signs Bhoys deal|url=http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11787/2268922/|publisher=Sky Sports|date=23 June 2003|access-date=19 January 2013|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20131211064018/http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11787/2268922/|archive-date=11 December 2013|url-status=dead}}
A pacy left winger, Wallace made his UEFA Champions League debut against FBK Kaunas in the second leg of the UEFA Champions League second round, coming on as an 80th-minute substitute, in a 1–0 win to advance to the next round.{{cite news|title=Celtic progress in second gear|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/champions_league/3126725.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=6 August 2003|access-date=9 April 2021}} It was not until on 1 November 2003 when he made his first league appearance for Celtic, coming on as an 81st-minute substitute, in a 5–0 win against Kilmarnock.{{cite news|title=A victim of his own success Celtic's driving force remains happy to dictate the game without being noticed|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12528899.a-victim-of-his-own-success-celtics-driving-force-remains-happy-to-dictate-the-game-without-being-noticed/|publisher=Herald Scotland|date=3 November 2003|access-date=9 April 2021}} This was followed up by scoring his first goal for the club, in a 5–0 win over Dunfermline Athletic on 8 November 2003.{{cite web|title=Celtic awake to sink Pars|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/3250317.stm|publisher=BBC|date=8 November 2003|access-date=17 January 2010}} Whilst clearly a skillful player, Wallace made only a few more first team appearances that season, as Alan Thompson remained the first-choice wide-left player at Celtic, but his contributions to the club saw them win the league after winning 1–0 against Kilmarnock on 18 April 2004.{{cite news|title=O'Neill laments latest round of fixture worries Whyte and Britton want to share the Thistle hot-seat|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12525722.oneill-laments-latest-round-of-fixture-worries-whyte-and-britton-want-to-share-the-thistle-hot-seat/|publisher=Herald Scotland|date=4 December 2003|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Eye-popping stuff in Lyon leaves Celtic trailing but managing fine|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12422837.eye-popping-stuff-in-lyon-leaves-celtic-trailing-but-managing-fine/|publisher=Herald Scotland|date=9 December 2003|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Larsson's last hurrah? Striker hints that he may retire back to Sweden after helping Celtic clinch title|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12509388.larssons-last-hurrah-striker-hints-that-he-may-retire-back-to-sweden-after-helping-celtic-clinch-title/|publisher=Herald Scotland|date=19 April 2004|access-date=9 April 2021}} Following a 1–1 draw against Motherwell on 12 May 2004, he was attacked by a pitch invading Motherwell supporter, prompting a police investigation.{{cite news|title=Motherwell 1–1 Celtic|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/3704519.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=12 May 2004|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Tempers fray at Fir Park farewell Motherwell's final home game of the season is unsightly and unruly|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12509505.tempers-fray-at-fir-park-farewell-motherwells-final-home-game-of-the-season-is-unsightly-and-unruly/|publisher=Herald Scotland|date=13 May 2004|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Celtic's Wallace kicked by supporter|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12509510.celtics-wallace-kicked-by-supporter/|publisher=Herald Scotland|date=13 May 2004|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Constant abuse will not force me out, says Lennon Midfielder bewildered by another testing week at Celtic|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12510477.constant-abuse-will-not-force-me-out-says-lennon-midfielder-bewildered-by-another-testing-week-at-celtic/|publisher=Herald cotland|date=14 May 2004|access-date=9 April 2021}} Wallace picked up his first silverware with the club, coming on as a second-half substitute for Stephen Pearson in Celtic's 3–1 win over Dunfermline in the Scottish Cup.{{cite news|title=Three and easy for Celtic as they pip Rangers to youth title|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12509087.three-and-easy-for-celtic-as-they-pip-rangers-to-youth-title/|publisher=Herald Scotland|date=8 May 2004|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Larsson caps Celtic triumph|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_div_1/3736209.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=22 May 2004|access-date=9 April 2021}}{{cite news|title=St Mirren's Ross Wallace hopes to emulate Celtic cup final days with Buddies|url=https://www.glasgowtimes.co.uk/sport/18264183.st-mirrens-ross-wallace-hopes-emulate-celtic-cup-final-days-buddies/|publisher=Glasgow Evening Times|date=26 February 2020|access-date=9 April 2021}} At the end of the 2003–04 season, he went on to make fourteen appearances and scoring once in all competitions.
In the 2004–05 season, Wallace began to receive more playing time for Celtic, playing in the midfield position, rotating in and out of the starting line–up.{{cite news|title=Caley Pay for Juanjo Banjo Lennon Courts More Controversy In Celtic Win|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12420556.caley-pay-for-juanjo-banjo-lennon-courts-more-controversy-in-celtic-win/|publisher=Herald Scotland|date=23 August 2004|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=O'Neill plays it cool, despite gossip from Hartson's agent Celtic manager happy to stall on new contract talks with striker|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12416099.oneill-plays-it-cool-despite-gossip-from-hartsons-agent-celtic-manager-happy-to-stall-on-new-contract-talks-with-striker/|publisher=Herald Scotland|date=25 September 2004|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Shakhtar Donetsk 3–0 Celtic|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/3753356.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=20 October 2004|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=O'Neill releases forgotten Petta|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/c/celtic/3999949.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=10 November 2004|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Barca frustrated as gameplan pays off|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12410304.barca-frustrated-as-gameplan-pays-off/|publisher=Herald Scotland|date=25 November 2004|access-date=9 April 2021}} After being sidelined with a hamstring injury, he scored a hat-trick on his return, in an 8–1 rout of Falkirk in a Scottish League Cup tie on 21 September 2004.{{cite news|title=Desailly rejects Celtic's advances to pursue career in television|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12418406.desailly-rejects-celtics-advances-to-pursue-career-in-television/|publisher=Herald Scotland|date=2 September 2004|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_div_1/3673598.stm|title=Celtic 8–1 Falkirk|publisher=BBC|date=21 September 2004 |access-date=17 January 2010}} After the match, manager Martin O'Neill praised his performance.{{cite news|title=O'Neill hails Wallace|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/c/celtic/3679608.stm|publisher=BBC|date=22 September 2004|access-date=19 January 2013}} Alan Thompson also said that Wallace was likely to succeed him in the future at left midfield positioned.{{cite news|title=Celtic will run rule over French midfielder in Spurs friendly|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12421608.celtic-will-run-rule-over-french-midfielder-in-spurs-friendly/|publisher=Herald Scotland|date=10 August 2004|access-date=9 April 2021}} However, he made little impact in either his league or European appearances, leading a loan enquiry from Inverness CT, whose bid was rejected.{{cite news|title=Souness: Rangers fans should be grateful|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12409777.souness-rangers-fans-should-be-grateful/|publisher=Herald Scotland|date=9 January 2005|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Inverness fail in bid for Wallace|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/i/inverness_ct/4149917.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=5 January 2005|access-date=9 April 2021}} This led manager O'Neill respond to Wallace's bid rejection, saying the player remained part of his plan.{{cite news|title=O'Neill has plans for Wallace|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/c/celtic/4167389.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=12 January 2005|access-date=9 April 2021}} After the transfer window closed, he continued to have his playing time, coming from the substitute bench for the rest of the 2004–05 season.{{cite news|title=McGeady waves magic wand|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12397621.mcgeady-waves-magic-wand/|publisher=Herald Scotland|date=13 March 2005|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Bellamy? That's my Bhoy United's graft no match for Welshman's craft as Celtic grind out crucial victory|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12395050.bellamy-thats-my-bhoy-uniteds-graft-no-match-for-welshmans-craft-as-celtic-grind-out-crucial-victory/|publisher=Herald Scotland|date=21 March 2005|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Hoops! . . . they did it again|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12497344.hoops-they-did-it-again/|publisher=Herald Scotland|date=3 April 2005|access-date=9 April 2021}} With the club finished second place in the league and only won the Scottish Cup, Wallace went on to make twenty–one appearances and scoring three times in all competitions.
With the arrival of new manager Gordon Strachan at the start of season 2005–06, Wallace made his first appearance of the season, starting a match against Artmedia Bratislava in the second leg of the UEFA Champions League second qualifying round and set up the second goal of the game for John Hartson before being substituted in the 54th minute, in a 4–0 win that was not enough for Celtic to overcome a 5–0 deficit from the away leg.{{cite news|title=Celtic 4–0 Artmedia Bratislava|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/4735857.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=2 August 2005|access-date=9 April 2021}} However, despite announcing his intention to fight for his first team place, he found himself on the sidelines for the first few months and found his playing time, coming from the substitute bench.{{cite news|title=Wallace confident Strachan will give youth its head|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12485944.wallace-confident-strachan-will-give-youth-its-head|publisher=Herald Scotland|date=26 July 2005|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Sutton back to fill the void left by captain Versatile Englishman's return softens blow for Celtic|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12477205.sutton-back-to-fill-the-void-left-by-captain-versatile-englishmans-return-softens-blow-for-celtic/|publisher=Herald Scotland|date=21 September 2005|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Celtic 5–0 Motherwell|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/4374936.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=26 October 2005|access-date=9 April 2021}} On 3 December 2005, Strachan began to play Wallace at left-back position in place of Mo Camara and he started his first match in the position, starting the whole game, in a 3–1 win against Aberdeen.{{cite news|title=Aberdeen 1–3 Celtic|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/4490710.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=3 December 2005|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=SFA ready to launch inquiry into Lennon coin-throwing incident|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12491861.sfa-ready-to-launch-inquiry-into-lennon-coin-throwing-incident/|publisher=Herald Scotland|date=6 December 2005|access-date=9 April 2021}}{{cite news|title=Ross Wallace is the forgotten man of Scottish football but the ex-Celt has enjoyed a fine career in England|url=http://www.eveningtimes.co.uk/sport/14527170.Ross_Wallace_is_the_forgotten_man_of_Scottish_football_but_the_ex_Celt_has_enjoyed_a_fine_career_in_England/|publisher=The Glasgow Evening Times|date=31 May 2016|access-date=9 April 2021}} However, this turned out to be a strange selection given Wallace's slight build and inexperience of playing in a defensive role.{{cite news|title=Ross Wallace's role came straight out of left field extra training work at Celtic revealed defensive talents|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12446633.wallaces-role-came-straight-out-of-leftfield-extra-training-work-at-celtic-revealed-defensive-talents/|publisher=Herald Scotland|date=10 December 2005|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Scots meet expectations but Nakamura shines brightest Marvellous exhibition gives hope for future|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12446352.scots-meet-expectations-but-nakamura-shines-brightest-marvellous-exhibition-gives-hope-for-future/|publisher=Herald Scotland|date=12 December 2005|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Strachan shaken and stirred Brewster masterful as Celtic drop two points to Inverness|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12447243.strachan-shaken-and-stirred-brewster-masterful-as-celtic-drop-two-points-to-inverness/|publisher=Herald Scotland|date=19 December 2005|access-date=9 April 2021}} Strachan persisted with this team selection for several weeks to the bemusement of fans who could clearly see the player's lack of aptitude for playing in defence.{{cite news|title=Who will make a case for the Celtic defence? Bobo Balde's January absence and recent concessions pose questions|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12444982.where-the-game-will-be-won-and-lost-hearts-v-celtic/|publisher=Herald Scotland|date=31 December 2005|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=SHOW HIM DU WEI TO GO HOME|url=https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/show-him-du-wei-to-go-932397|publisher=Daily Record|date=9 January 2006|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Camara refuses to adopt negative attitude|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12443347.camara-refuses-to-adopt-negative-attitude/|publisher=Herald Scotland|date=18 January 2006|access-date=9 April 2021}} This further highlighted his lack of positional awareness in playing in defence when he scored an own goal in the New Year game against Hearts at Tynecastle, although the club still won 3–2 on 1 January 2006.{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/4569382.stm|title=Hearts 2–3 Celtic|date=1 January 2006|publisher=BBC Sport}} Towards the end of the season, new signing Mark Wilson replaced him at left back even though it was not his natural position (Wilson is a right back).{{cite news|title=Strachan's challenge for Mulgrew|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/c/celtic/4719962.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=16 February 2006|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/c/celtic/4773164.stm|title=Wilson happy to fill in on left|date=4 March 2006|publisher=BBC Sport}} But Wallace played in the Scottish League Cup Final at a left back position against Dunfermline Athletic, due to Wilson being cup-tied and Celtic won 3–0.{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/2333865/Final-hurrah-for-Celtic-legend.html|first=Roddy|last=Forsyth|newspaper=Daily Telegraph|title=Final hurrah for Celtic legend|date=18 March 2006|access-date=13 February 2020}} He later made two appearances later in the 2005–06 season and despite being dropped from the first team, his contributions saw the club win the league.{{cite news|title=Livingston 0–2 Celtic|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/4836950.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=26 March 2006|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Celtic 1–0 Hearts|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/4873944.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=5 April 2006|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Celtic 2–0 Kilmarnock|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/4964756.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=3 May 2006|access-date=9 April 2021}} At the end of the 2005–06 season, Wallace went on to make fourteen appearances in all competitions.
Ahead of the 2006–07 season, Wallace went on trial at Championship side Birmingham City.{{cite news|title=Wallace on trial with Birmingham|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/b/birmingham_city/5234878.stm|publisher=BBC|date=1 August 2006|access-date=19 January 2013}} It came after when he performed a poor display in Celtic's pre–season tour.{{cite news|title=Brewster keeps an eye Wallace|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12430572.brewster-keeps-an-eye-wallace/|publisher=Herald Scotland|date=19 July 2006|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Celtic defiant over Petrov as O'Neill makes contact|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12523651.celtic-defiant-over-petrov-as-oneill-makes-contact/|publisher=Herald Scotland|date=19 August 2006|access-date=9 April 2021}} Amid to his future at the club, Wallace made two more appearances for Celtic, both starting the matches at the start of the 2006–07 season.{{cite news|title=Celtic 2–0 St Mirren|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/4783257.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=12 August 2006|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Inverness CT 1–1 Celtic|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/5264758.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=20 August 2006|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=FOOTBALL: MAN BY MAN|url=https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/uk-world-news/football-man-by-man-935358|publisher=Daily Record|date=21 August 2006|access-date=9 April 2021}} However, he was clearly no longer part of the plans of the Celtic management and was expected to leave the club.{{cite news|title=Keane looking for six appeal|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/keane-looking-for-six-appeal-1547261|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=31 August 2006|access-date=9 April 2021}}
=Sunderland=
Wallace was sold to Sunderland on 31 August 2006 in a deal including teammate Stanislav Varga for a combined fee of up to £1,100,000.{{cite web|url=http://www.safc.com/news/?page_id=10358|title=Keane signs Celtic pair|publisher=Sunderland A.F.C.|date=31 August 2006|access-date=31 August 2006|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20060902063241/http://www.safc.com/news/?page_id=10358|archive-date=2 September 2006|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news|title=Celtic pair head for Sunderland|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/s/sunderland/5304060.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=31 August 2006|access-date=9 April 2021}} Upon joining the club, he said about his former teammate turned manager Roy Keane: "I've been on the wrong end of a Roy Keane rollicking once or twice and I still decided to come here. But to be fair, if he does say something, it's going to be good for you. He wants to help you. When he does do it, it's positive criticism. He demands the best because he was world class for a decade. Obviously, he demands the best from everyone here to take the club back up."{{cite news|title=Keane's quiet revolution is under way|url=https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/sport/915032.keanes-quiet-revolution-way/|publisher=The Northern Echo|date=9 September 2006|access-date=9 April 2021}}
Wallace made his Sunderland debut against Derby County on 9 September 2006 and scored the winner in a 2–1 win.{{cite news|title=Derby County 1–2 Sunderland|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_1/5308228.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=9 September 2006|access-date=9 April 2021}} This was followed up by setting up a goal for Liam Miller, who scored 14 yards past the goalkeeper, in a 3–0 win against Leeds United four days later on 13 September 2006.{{cite news|last=Walker|first=Michael|title=Calls for Blackwell's head as Keane's men stride on|work=The Guardian|date=14 September 2006|url=http://football.guardian.co.uk/Match_Report/0,,1872019,00.html|access-date=9 April 2021|location=London|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080704153208/http://football.guardian.co.uk/Match_Report/0,,1872019,00.html |archive-date=4 July 2008}} However in a match against Ipswich Town on 23 September 2006, he played a role that led Jason de Vos to score an own goal, but was sent–off in the 86th minute for a second bookable offence, in a 3–1 loss.{{cite news|title=Ipswich Town 3–1 Sunderland|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_1/5351722.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=29 September 2006|access-date=9 April 2021}} After serving a one match suspension, Wallace returned to the first team, coming on as a 52nd-minute substitute, in a 4–1 loss against Preston North End on 14 October 2006.{{cite news|title=Keane opts to sort out Kavanagh injury|url=https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/sport/945030.keane-opts-sort-kavanagh-injury/|publisher=The Northern Echo|date=29 September 2006|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Preston North End 4–1 Sunderland|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_1/5415678.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=14 October 2006|access-date=9 April 2021}} In a match against Hull City on 28 October 2006, he scored his second goal for the club, which turns out to be the winning goal, but was sent–off for a second bookable offence for taking off his shirt while celebrating.{{cite news|title=Hull 0–1 Sunderland|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_1/6072764.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=28 October 2006|access-date=9 April 2021}} After serving a two match suspension, Wallace scored on his return, scoring the breakthrough goal in the 62nd minute, in a 1–1 draw against Southampton on 11 November 2006.{{cite news|title=Midfield role is all Dwight|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/midfield-role-is-all-dwight-1552306|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=13 October 2006|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Keane wants a reaction|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/keane-wants-a-reaction-1554802|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=3 November 2006|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Sunderland 1–1 Southampton|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_1/6116576.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=11 November 2006|access-date=9 April 2021}} Following this, he was involved in the first team, and the left-wing position had been highly contested between the player and teammate Tobias Hysén.{{cite news|title=Hysen insists he can carry out a striking job|url=https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/sport/926275.hysen-insists-can-carry-striking-job/|publisher=The Northern Echo|date=19 September 2006|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Wallace set for battle|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/wallace-set-for-battle-1552057|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=11 October 2006|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=I need to be believed in|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/need-believed-1556668|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=21 November 2006|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=4–5–1 gives attack shape|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/4-5-1-gives-attack-shape-1557983|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=2 December 2006|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Sunderland 2, Coventry City 0|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/sunderland-2-coventry-city-0-1483152|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=5 February 2007|access-date=9 April 2021}} Due to injuries, his early form did tail towards the back end of the season.{{cite news|title=Wallace still hankers after his favourite midfield role|url=https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/sport/1121654.wallace-still-hankers-favourite-midfield-role/|publisher=The Northern Echo|date=13 January 2007|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=It's time to crash the party|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/its-time-crash-party-1481329|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=19 January 2007|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Keane salutes Hysen's revival|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/keane-salutes-hysens-revival-1485265|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=23 February 2007|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Barnsley 0, Sunderland 2|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/barnsley-0-sunderland-2-1487347|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=12 March 2007|access-date=9 April 2021}} But Wallace was able to re-find his form as the season ended, rotating in playing either the left–back position and left–wing position and scored three more goals.{{cite news|title=Patient Cats can turn it on|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/patient-cats-can-turn-1479302|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=2 January 2007|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Cats get the point late on|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/cats-point-late-1487647|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=14 March 2007|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Cardiff City 0–1 Sunderland|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_1/6490971.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=31 March 2007|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Sunderland 2–1 Wolverhampton Wanderers|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_1/6513497.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=7 April 2007|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Luton 0–5 Sunderland|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_1/6602865.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=6 May 2007|access-date=9 April 2021}} Sunderland fans were more than pleased with the promising form the player showed throughout the 2006–07 campaign as the club won the Championship.{{cite news|title=Wallace understands expectations of Sunderland fans|url=https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/sport/935936.wallace-understands-expectations-sunderland-fans/|publisher=The Northern Echo|date=23 September 2006|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Black Cats win race for the title|url=https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/sport/football/1380302.black-cats-win-race-title/|publisher=The Northern Echo|date=7 May 2007|access-date=9 April 2021}} At the end of the 2006–07 season, he went on to make thirty–three appearances and scoring six times in all competitions. Following this, Wallace was in talks with Sunderland over an improved contract.{{cite news|title=Cats look to profit|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/cats-look-to-profit-1496907|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=30 May 2007|access-date=9 April 2021}}
Wallace started the 2007–08 season as Sunderland's first choice left-back despite several new defenders joining the club during pre-season.{{cite news|title=Mido and Gordon top Cats' list|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/mido-gordon-top-cats-list-1501691|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=3 August 2007|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Carlos injury blow rocks Keane|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/carlos-injury-blow-rocks-keane-1502395|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=17 August 2007|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Black Cats feeling lucky|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/black-cats-feeling-lucky-1504749|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=24 August 2007|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Wallace eager to see return of defensive resolve|url=https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/sport/1771634.wallace-eager-see-return-defensive-resolve/|publisher=The Northern Echo|date=19 October 2007|access-date=9 April 2021}} In the first game of the season against Tottenham Hotspur on 11 August 2007, he lined up on Sunderland's starting eleven to make his Premier League debut and successfully provided the 93rd minute assist that enabled Michael Chopra to score and the club went on to win the game.{{cite news|title=Sunderland 1–0 Tottenham Hotspur|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/6931064.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=11 August 2007|access-date=9 April 2021}} In a follow–up match into the second game away to Birmingham City, Wallace played an integral part in the decisive goal when he provided the free kick that eventually led to Stern John's late equaliser, resulting in a 2–2 draw.{{cite news|title=Birmingham City 2–2 Sunderland|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/6941801.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=15 August 2007|access-date=9 April 2021}} Wallace then scored his first Premier League goal, in a 2–1 win against Reading at the Stadium of Light on 15 September 2007.{{cite news|title=Sunderland 2–1 Reading|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/6984883.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=15 September 2007|access-date=9 April 2021}} Three weeks later on 7 October 2007, he scored his second goal of the season, in a 3–2 loss against Arsenal, which was the first ever goal for Sunderland at their first ever game at the Emirates Stadium.{{cite news|title=Arsenal 3–2 Sunderland|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/7019622.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=7 October 2007|access-date=9 April 2021}} Despite his involvement in the first team so far, manager Keane stated he would consider offers for Wallace, along with five other players and was placed on a transfer list.{{cite news|title=Wallace eager to see return of defensive resolve|url=https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/sport/1767998.wallace-eager-see-return-defensive-resolve/|publisher=The Northern Echo|date=18 October 2007|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Wallace admits Cats must lift away form|url=https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/sport/1920743.wallace-admits-cats-must-lift-away-form/|publisher=The Northern Echo|date=21 December 2007|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Wallace endures Blackest of nights|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/wallace-endures-blackest-of-nights-1465247|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=3 January 2008|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Keane to let players leave|url=http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11695/3041361/|publisher=Sky Sports|date=12 January 2008|access-date=19 January 2013|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200926090112/https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11695/3041361|archive-date=26 September 2020|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news|title=Stokes staying put, but it's hello M'Voto|url=https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/sport/1968310.stokes-staying-put-hello-mvoto/|publisher=The Northern Echo|date=16 January 2008|access-date=9 April 2021}} However, it was reported on 18 January 2008 that Wallace had sustained an Anterior Cruciate Ligament knee injury and would therefore miss the rest of the 2007–08 football season.{{cite news|title=Sunderland 3, Bolton 1|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/sunderland-3-bolton-1-1506872|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=30 December 2007|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Wallace blow for Black Cats|url=http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11695/3057331/|publisher=Sky Sports|date=18 January 2008|access-date=19 January 2013|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305075457/http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11695/3057331|archive-date=5 March 2016|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news|title=Collins expects Cats to settle after comings and goings|url=https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/sport/2022630.collins-expects-cats-settle-comings-goings/|publisher=The Northern Echo|date=6 February 2008|access-date=9 April 2021}} While on the sidelines, he was linked with a MLS side Toronto want to sign him but talks never materialised.{{cite news|title=MLS option for Wallace|url=http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11695/3257122/|publisher=Sky Sports|date=7 March 2008|access-date=19 January 2013|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305055223/http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11695/3257122|archive-date=5 March 2016|url-status=dead}} Shortly after, Wallace made a recovery from his injury in early–March and spent two months, making progress on his recovery and featuring in the club's reserve matches.{{cite news|title=Ross in a hurry to make return|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/ross-hurry-make-return-1467603|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=8 March 2008|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Ross ready for battle to save his Cats career|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/ross-ready-battle-save-cats-1468660|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=5 April 2008|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Be on the Ball and you'll be hailed heroes|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/ball-youll-hailed-heroes-1469069|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=16 April 2008|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Wallace's treble joy|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/wallaces-treble-joy-1469368|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=24 April 2008|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Wallace: I'm ready to face Boro|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/wallace-im-ready-face-boro-1469405|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=25 April 2008|access-date=9 April 2021}} It was not until 11 May 2008 when he made his return on the final game of the season, starting the whole game, in a 1–0 loss against Arsenal.{{cite news|title=Sunderland 0–1 Arsenal|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/7381801.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=11 May 2008|access-date=9 April 2021}} At the end of the 2007–08 season, Wallace went on to make twenty–two appearances and scoring once in all competitions.
=Preston North End=
Over the summer transfer, Wallace remained on the transfer list, leading interests from Preston North End and Sheffield United.{{cite news|title=Keane's axe falls on Miller|url=https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/sport/2078731.keanes-axe-falls-miller/|publisher=The Northern Echo|date=28 February 2008|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Keane plans a big summer turnaround|url=https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/sport/2224390.keane-plans-big-summer-turnaround/|publisher=The Northern Echo|date=25 April 2008|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Black Cats step up bid for striker Bent|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/black-cats-step-up-bid-1471849|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=1 July 2008|access-date=9 April 2021}} In the 2008 summer transfer window, it was reported that he rejected a move to Preston North End and stay at Sunderland to fight for his place in the first team.{{cite news|title=Wallace spurns PNE advances|url=http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11688/3771558/|publisher=Sky Sports|date=3 July 2008|access-date=19 January 2013|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200807010535/https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11688/3771558|archive-date=7 August 2020|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news|title=Wallace wants to stay with Sunderland|url=https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/sport/2378875.wallace-wants-stay-sunderland/|publisher=The Northern Echo|date=4 July 2008|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Wallace KOs £1m Preston move|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/wallace-kos-1m-preston-move-1471926|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=3 July 2008|access-date=9 April 2021}} Following this, Wallace was taken off the transfer listed and he later thanked manager Keane for giving him a second chance to play for the club ahead of the 2008–09 season.{{cite news|title=Sunderland boss confident of a revamped side for next season|url=https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/sport/3215046.sunderland-boss-confident-revamped-side-next-season/|publisher=The Northern Echo|date=18 July 2008|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Ross Wallace thanks Roy Keane for second chance at Sunderland|url=https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/ross-wallace-thanks-roy-keane-985016|publisher=Daily Record|date=27 July 2008|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Wallace takes second chance|url=http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11695/3853079/|publisher=Sky Sports|date=22 July 2008|access-date=19 January 2013|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200807010535/http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11695/3853079/|archive-date=7 August 2020|url-status=dead}} However on 31 July 2008, Wallace eventually signed a year-long loan at Preston with a view to a permanent deal at the end of the season.{{cite news|title=Wallace makes Preston loan switch|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/p/preston/7535710.stm|publisher=BBC|date=31 July 2008|access-date=19 January 2013}}
{{cite news|title=Murphy signs contract extension but Wallace leaves on loan|url=https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/sport/3561986.murphy-signs-contract-extension-wallace-leaves-loan/|publisher=The Northern Echo|date=31 July 2008|access-date=9 April 2021}}
He made his debut for the club against Chesterfield in the first round of the League Cup, starting the whole game, and set up a goal for Neil Mellor, in a 2–0 win to advance to the next round.{{cite news|title=Preston North End 2 Chesterfield 0|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/football/3590880.preston-north-end-2-chesterfield-0/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=13 August 2008|access-date=9 April 2021}} A week later on 23 August 2008, Wallace made his league debut, coming on as a 55th-minute substitute for Barry Nicholson, in a 1–1 draw against Sheffield Wednesday.{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday 1–1 Preston North End|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_1/7565094.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=23 August 2008|access-date=9 April 2021}} Having started out from the substitute bench, he regained his first team place, playing in the midfield position.{{cite news|title=Coventry City 0–0 Preston North End|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_1/7602104.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=13 September 2008|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Preston North End winger loaned to Notts County|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/football/3808990.preston-north-end-winger-loaned-notts-county/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=31 October 2008|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Preston North End boss receives advice from Stoke manager|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/football/3969972.preston-north-end-boss-receives-advice-stoke-manager/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=11 December 2008|access-date=9 April 2021}} Wallace then scored his first goal for Preston North End, in a 2–0 win over Watford on 28 October 2008.{{cite news|title=Preston North End 2–0 Watford|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_1/7683973.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=28 October 2008|access-date=9 April 2021}} He later scored two more goals by the end of the year, coming against Bristol City and Barnsley.{{cite news|title=Preston North End 2–0 Bristol City|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_1/7742133.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=29 November 2008|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Barnsley 1–1 Preston North End|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_1/7791621.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=28 December 2008|access-date=9 April 2021}} Wallace signed a permanent four-and-a-half-year contract with the club on 12 January 2009.{{cite news|title=Wallace completes Preston switch |publisher=BBC Sport |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/p/preston/7825000.stm|date=12 January 2009 | access-date=12 January 2009}} A month later on 21 February 2009, he scored his first goal since joining Preston North End on a permanent basis, in a 3–1 loss against Southampton.{{cite news|title=Southampton 3–1 Preston|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_1/7883625.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=21 February 2009|access-date=9 April 2021}} Wallace soon became a fan favourite, due to the number of times he provided excellent crosses, mainly for Jon Parkin and went on to provide nineteen assists.{{cite news|title=Willing Wallace wins battle of wingers to put Preston back on track|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2008/nov/17/championship-blackpool|work=The Guardian|date=17 November 2008|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Preston North End 1 Doncaster Rovers 0|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/football/3963876.preston-north-end-1-doncaster-rovers-0/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=10 December 2008|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Memory Match: Jon Parkin was Preston's late hero against Birmingham City in December 2008|url=https://www.lep.co.uk/sport/nostalgia/memory-match-jon-parkin-was-prestons-late-hero-against-birmingham-city-december-2008-3018994|publisher=Lancashire Evening Post|date=29 October 2020|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Preston North End 2–1 Coventry City|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_1/7923126.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=14 March 2009|access-date=9 April 2021}} At the end of the 2008–09 season, Wallace went on to make thirty–nine appearances and scoring five times in all competitions.
At the start of the 2009–10 season, Wallace continued to establish himself in the first team, where he began to play in a playmaker role.{{cite news|title=Former Celtic player Ross Wallace flourishing in new role as Preston playmaker|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12611843.former-celtic-player-ross-wallace-flourishing-in-new-role-as-preston-playmaker/|publisher=Herald Scotland|date=7 October 2009|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Wallace earns welcome of an old friend returned|url=https://www.glasgowtimes.co.uk/news/12846802.wallace-earns-welcome-of-an-old-friend-returned/|publisher=Glasgow Evening Times|date=7 October 2009|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Match Preview: Preston North End v Middlesbrough|url=https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/sport/4700484.match-preview-preston-north-end-v-middlesbrough/|publisher=The Northern Echo|date=23 October 2009|access-date=9 April 2021}} Wallace scored his first goal of the season, in a 1–1 draw against Ipswich Town on 29 August 2009.{{cite web|url=http://www.pnefc.net/page/MatchReport/0,,10362~47366,00.html|title=Ipswich Town vs Preston North End|publisher=Preston North End F.C.|date=29 August 2009|access-date=9 April 2021|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20090830210648/http://www.pnefc.net/page/MatchReport/0,,10362~47366,00.html|archive-date=30 August 2009|url-status=dead}} He later scored three more goals by the end of the year.{{cite news|title=Preston North End 1–1 Crystal Palace|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_1/8326936.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=31 October 2009|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Blackpool 1–1 Preston North End|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_1/8377127.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=30 November 2009|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Preston North End 2–0 Plymouth Argyle|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_1/8404741.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=12 December 2009|access-date=9 April 2021}} Wallace then scored his fifth goal of the season, in a 4–2 loss against Bristol City on 16 January 2010.{{cite news|title=Bristol City 4–1 Preston North End|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_1/8452604.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=16 January 2010|access-date=9 April 2021}} He later scored two more goals later in the 2009–10 season, coming against Nottingham Forest and Reading.{{cite news|title=Preston North End 3–2 Nottingham Forest|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_1/8558673.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=13 March 2010|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Reading 4–1 Preston North End|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_1/8646730.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=2 May 2010|access-date=9 April 2021}} Unlike last season, Wallace was not able to provide more assists, registering only seven.{{cite web|url=http://www.pnefc.net/page/MatchReport/0,,10362~48297,00.html|title=Preston North End vs Middlesbrough|publisher=Preston North End F.C.|date=24 October 2009|access-date=9 April 2021|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20091027043401/http://www.pnefc.net/page/MatchReport/0,,10362~48297,00.html|archive-date=27 October 2009|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news|title=Peterborough United 0–1 Preston North End|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_1/8475777.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=16 January 2010|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=West Bromwich Albion 3–2 Preston North End|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_1/8572512.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=20 March 2010|access-date=9 April 2021}} However, he received thirteen bookings, missing two games as a result.{{cite news|title=Card collector Ben's unwanted '˜record'|url=https://www.lep.co.uk/sport/football/card-collector-bens-unwanted-record-1119806|publisher=Lancashire Evening Post|date=22 May 2017|access-date=9 April 2021}} At the end of the 2009–10 season, Wallace went on to make forty–five appearances and scoring seven times in all competitions.
Upon leaving the club, Wallace said he was disappointed not to say goodbye to his Preston teammates.{{cite news|title=Burnley winger Wallace: Preston exit was a real surprise|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/8383353.burnley-winger-wallace-preston-exit-real-surprise/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=10 September 2010|access-date=9 April 2021}} However, Wallace was criticised in an interview with The Lancashire Telegraph when he expressed his lack of sympathy on Preston North End's struggles that eventually saw them relegated the following season.{{cite news|title=Burnley winger Wallace has no sympathy for Preston North End's struggles|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/8876457.burnley-winger-wallace-no-sympathy-preston-north-ends-struggles/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=25 January 2010|access-date=9 April 2021}} While playing for Sheffield Wednesday against his former club, Preston North End on 20 February 2016, Wallace received boos from the club's supporters whenever he touched the ball throughout the match, losing 1–0.{{cite news|title=Owls match report: Preston 1 Sheffield Wednesday 0|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/owls-match-report-preston-1-sheffield-wednesday-0-459794|work=The Star|date=20 February 2016|access-date=9 April 2021}}
=Burnley=
Wallace transferred to fellow Championship club Burnley for an undisclosed fee on 2 July 2010, signing a three-year contract.{{cite news|title=Burnley sign Preston North End's Ross Wallace|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/b/burnley/8784600.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=2 July 2010|access-date=9 April 2021}} Upon completion of the transfer, he was described by manager Brian Laws as "one of the best left-sided players in the Championship".{{cite news|title=New signing Wallace keen to dazzle Burnley fans|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/8258324.new-signing-wallace-keen-dazzle-burnley-fans/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=7 July 2010|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite web|url=http://www.burnleyfootballclub.com/page/LatestHeadlines/0,,10413~2083554,00.html|title=Clarets Swoop To Clinch Wallace Deal|date=2 July 2010|access-date=2 July 2010|publisher=Burnley FC|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100704092933/http://www.burnleyfootballclub.com/page/LatestHeadlines/0,,10413~2083554,00.html|archive-date=4 July 2010}} The club decided to sign him after they ended their interest in signing Hearts' midfielder Andrew Driver.{{cite news|title=Burnley end interest in Hearts winger Andrew Driver|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/b/burnley/8780535.stm|publisher=BBC|date=1 July 2010|access-date=19 January 2013}}
Wallace scored his first goal in a Burnley shirt a week later on his debut in a pre-season friendly against Bury.{{cite news|title=TEAM NEWS: Bury v Burnley|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/8265846.team-news-bury-v-burnley/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=10 July 2010|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=FULL-TIME: Bury 0 Burnley 3|url=http://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/football/9135624.FULL_TIME__Bury_0_Burnley_3/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=12 July 2010|access-date=19 January 2013}} He continued to produce a good display throughout the club's pre–season tour in a number of matches.{{cite news|title=FULL-TIME: Gombak United 0 Burnley 5|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/8281616.full-time-gombak-united-0-burnley-5/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=20 July 2010|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=FULL-TIME Home United 0 Burnley 5|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/8286398.full-time-home-united-0-burnley-5/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=22 July 2010|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=FULL-TIME: Burnley 1 Stoke City 2|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/8305505.full-time-burnley-1-stoke-city-2/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=31 July 2010|access-date=9 April 2021}} Wallace made his league debut for Burnley, starting the whole game, in a 1–0 win over Nottingham Forest in the opening game of the season.{{cite news|title=Burnley 1–0 Nottingham Forest|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_1/8881382.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=7 August 2010|access-date=9 April 2021}} Two weeks later on 21 August 2010, he scored his first goal for the club and set up a goal for Chris Iwelumo in a 3–0 win over Leicester City.{{cite news|title=Burnley 3–0 Leicester City|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_1/8918019.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=21 August 2010|access-date=9 April 2021}} Facing against his former club, Preston North End on 11 September 2010, Wallace played a key role in the match when he set up the opener for Iwelumo and a winning goal for Jay Rodriguez in a 4–3 win.{{cite news|title=Burnley 4–3 Preston North End|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_1/8977578.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=11 September 2010|access-date=9 April 2021}} After missing a match, due to a groin injury, Wallace found his playing time, coming from the substitute bench, due to competitions in the midfield position.{{cite news|title=Burnley v Bolton Wanderers: early team news|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/8405402.burnley-v-bolton-team-news/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=21 September 2010|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Former Burnley defender Jordan sharpens his elbows for Rodriguez battle|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/8456256.former-burnley-defender-jordan-sharpens-elbows-rodriguez-battle/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=16 October 2010|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Spirit is the key for Burnley boss Laws|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/8637041.spirit-key-burnley-boss-laws/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=15 November 2010|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Laws gives Burnley winger Wallace pep talk|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/8638906.laws-gives-burnley-winger-wallace-pep-talk/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=16 November 2010|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Burnley FC blog: It's a big corner for the Clarets to turn|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/8681889.burnley-fc-blog-big-corner-clarets-turn/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=23 November 2010|access-date=9 April 2021}} Despite this, he was able to score his second goal for Burnley, in a 3–2 win against Watford on 13 November 2010.{{cite news|title=FULL-TIME: Burnley 3 Watford 2|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/8636142.full-time-burnley-3-watford-2/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=13 November 2010|access-date=9 April 2021}} On 3 January 2011, Wallace scored his third goal for the club, in a 2–1 loss against Reading.{{cite news|title=Reading 2–1 Burnley|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_1/9331358.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=3 January 2011|access-date=9 April 2021}} By January, he found himself in and out of the starting line–up for the rest of the 2010–11 season.{{cite news|title=Burnley defeat Preston behind closed doors|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/8799445.burnley-defeat-preston-behind-closed-doors/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=19 January 2011|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Howe: Wallace is the key to Burnley's play-off push|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/8876443.howe-wallace-key-burnleys-play-off-push/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=25 February 2011|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Clarets Blog: Play-off hopes well on course|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/8892906.clarets-blog-play-off-hopes-well-course/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=7 March 2011|access-date=9 April 2021}} At the end of the 2010–11 season, Wallace went on to make forty–three appearances and scoring three times in all competitions.
In the opening game of the 2011–12 season, Wallace helped Burnley when he helped the club draw 2–2 draw by setting up a goal for Keith Treacy.{{cite news|title=Burnley 2–2 Watford|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/14351859|publisher=BBC Sport|date=6 August 2011|access-date=9 April 2021}} This was followed up by scoring his first goal of the season and setting up a goal for Jay Rodriguez, who went on to score four goals, in a 6–3 win against Burton Albion in the first round of the League Cup.{{cite news|title=FULL-TIME: Burnley 6 Burton Albion 3 (after extra time)|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/9185955.full-time-burnley-6-burton-albion-3-extra-time/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=9 August 2011|access-date=9 April 2021}} Since the start of the 2011–12 season, Wallace became a first team regular for the club when he started out, playing in the left–wing position.{{cite news|title=Burnley squad confidence is major boost for Wallace|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/9242282.burnley-squad-confidence-major-boost-wallace/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=9 September 2011|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Howe laments Burnley's worst show of the season|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/9245320.howe-laments-burnleys-worst-show-season/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=12 September 2011|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Ross Wallace shaping up at Burnley|url=http://www.burnleyexpress.net/sport/football/burnley-fc/ross-wallace-shaping-up-at-burnley-1-3869079|publisher=Burnley Express|date=14 October 2011|access-date=19 January 2013|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20171223160738/https://www.burnleyexpress.net/sport/football/clarets/ross-wallace-shaping-up-at-burnley-1-3869079|archive-date=23 December 2017|url-status=dead}} Wallace then began rotating into playing different positions, starting out in the right–midfield position and left–back position.{{cite news|title=TEAM NEWS: Burnley v Peterborough United|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/9513292.team-news-burnley-v-peterborough-united/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=4 February 2012|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Burnley 1–1 Crystal Palace|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/17243698|publisher=BBC Sport|date=10 March 2012|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Howe's praise for victorious Burnley|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/9637297.howes-praise-victorious-burnley/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=7 April 2012|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Numbers up for Burnley manager Howe|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/9689039.numbers-burnley-manager-howe/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=4 May 2012|access-date=9 April 2021}} He then scored his second goal of the season, scoring from 20 yards, in a 5–1 win against Nottingham Forest on 27 September 2011.{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_1/14982428.stm|title=Burnley 5–1 Nottingham Forest|publisher=BBC Sport|date=27 September 2011|access-date=9 April 2021|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20110929170925/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_1/14982428.stm|archive-date=29 September 2011|url-status=dead}} This was followed up by setting up a goal for Rodriguez to score the only goal of the game, in a 1–0 win against Millwall.{{cite news|title=Millwall 0–1 Burnley|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/15045648|publisher=BBC Sport|date=1 October 2011|access-date=9 April 2021}} From 22 October 2011 to 5 November 2011, Wallace scored four goals in four consecutive games for Burnley.{{cite news|title=Austin powers Clarets to win|url=https://www.skysports.com/football/coventry-vs-burnley/238405|publisher=Sky Sports|date=22 October 2011|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Austin nets again in Clarets win|url=https://www.skysports.com/football/burnley-vs-blackpool/238415|publisher=Sky Sports|date=29 October 2011|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Leicester end away-day hoodoo|url=https://www.skysports.com/football/burnley-vs-leicester-city/238427|publisher=Sky Sports|date=1 November 2011|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Burnley's Wallace has eye on goal-den best|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/9344795.burnleys-wallace-eye-goal-den-best/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=4 November 2011|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Glee at Gate at last for City|url=https://www.skysports.com/football/bristol-c-vs-burnley/report/238439|publisher=Sky Sporys|date=5 November 2011|access-date=9 April 2021}} Wallace also started in every match until he missed a match against Leeds United on 19 November 2011, due to picking up an injury in training.{{cite news|title=TEAM NEWS: Burnley v Leeds|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/9374264.team-news-burnley-v-leeds/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=19 November 2011|access-date=9 April 2021}} Wallace then returned to the starting line–up against Birmingham City three days later on 22 November 2011, starting the whole game, in a 2–1 loss.{{cite news|title=Birmingham City 2 Burnley 1|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/9379757.birmingham-city-2-burnley-1/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=22 November 2011|access-date=9 April 2021}} However, his return was short–lived when he missed one match for picking up five yellow cards this season.{{cite news|title=Eddie Howe: Victory over Hull City can be turning point for Burnley|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/9388516.eddie-howe-victory-hull-city-can-turning-point-burnley/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=28 November 2011|access-date=9 April 2021}} After serving a one match suspension, Wallace returned to the first team against West Ham United on 3 December 2011, coming on as a 58th-minute substitute, and set up the winning goal for Sam Vokes, in a 2–1 win.{{cite news|title=Burnley winger Junior Stanislas going 'home' in away clash with West Ham|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/9399969.burnley-winger-junior-stanislas-going-home-away-clash-west-ham/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=3 December 2011|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=West Ham United 1–2 Burnley|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_1/15901825.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=3 December 2011|access-date=9 April 2021}} Following this, he became the club's most consistent performer for the rest of the 2011–12 season, providing nine assists.{{cite news|title=Burnley wideman Wallace sets goal target|url=http://www.burnleyexpress.net/sport/football/burnley-fc/burnley-wideman-wallace-sets-goal-target-1-3935344|publisher=Burnley Express|date=4 November 2011|access-date=19 January 2013|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20171223160735/https://www.burnleyexpress.net/sport/football/clarets/burnley-wideman-wallace-sets-goal-target-1-3935344|archive-date=23 December 2017|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news|title=Clarets Blog: Mee will have won royal approval|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/9542811.clarets-blog-mee-will-won-royal-approval/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=21 February 2012|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Howe's praise for brave Burnley squad|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/9641385.howes-praise-brave-burnley-squad/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=11 April 2012|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Wallace yearning for return to the Burnley wing|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/9648997.wallace-yearning-return-burnley-wing/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=14 April 2012|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Winger Wallace hopes Clarets hold on to class of 2011/12|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/9697990.winger-wallace-hopes-clarets-hold-class-2011-12/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=10 May 2012|access-date=9 April 2021}} At the end of the 2011–12 season, Wallace went on to make forty–four appearances and scoring six times in all competitions.
At the start of the 2012–13 season, Wallace continued to remain in the first team by rotating in playing either right midfield position.{{cite news|title=Full time: Burnley 1 Plymouth 1 (AET, Burnley won 3–2 on penalties)|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/9897311.full-time-burnley-1-plymouth-1-aet-burnley-won-3-2-penalties/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=28 August 2012|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=FULL TIME: Burnley 3 Sheffield Wednesday 3|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/9961488.full-time-burnley-3-sheffield-wednesday-3/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=2 October 2012|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.burnleyfootballclub.com/content/burnley-1-blackpool-0-1|title=Burnley 1 Blackpool 0|publisher=Burnley F.C.|date=20 October 2012|access-date=9 April 2021|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20210407191139/https://www.burnleyfootballclub.com/content/burnley-1-blackpool-0-1|archive-date=7 April 2021|url-status=live}}
{{cite news|title=Wallace ready to end his drought for Burnley|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/10095328.wallace-ready-end-drought-burnley/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=7 December 2012|access-date=9 April 2021}} This lasted until 20 October 2012 prior to a match against Bristol City when he suffered a hamstring injury and missed two matches as a result.{{cite news|title=Full time: Bristol City 3 Burnley 4|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/10002573.full-time-bristol-city-3-burnley-4/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=23 October 2012|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Pashley set for an extended spell in charge|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/10006442.pashley-set-extended-spell-charge/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=25 October 2012|access-date=9 April 2021}} After missing two matches, Wallace returned to the starting line–up against Wolverhampton Wanderers on 3 November 2012 and set up the second goal of the game, in a 2–0 win.{{cite news|title=Burnley 2–0 Wolverhampton Wanderers|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/20107393|publisher=BBC Sport|date=3 November 2012|access-date=9 April 2021}} After serving a one match suspension, he returned to the starting line–up and set up two goals in the next two matches against Hull City and Barnsley.{{cite web|url=https://www.burnleyfootballclub.com/content/ben-battling-to-be-fit|title=Ben Battling To Be Fit|publisher=Burnley F.C.|date=15 November 2012|access-date=9 April 2021|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20210407191219/https://www.burnleyfootballclub.com/content/ben-battling-to-be-fit|archive-date=7 April 2021|url-status=live}}
{{cite news|title=Dean Marney hits only goal as Burnley win 1–0 at Hull in the Championship|url=https://www.skysports.com/football/hull-city-vs-burnley/262432|publisher=Sky Sports|date=24 November 2012|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Barnsley's winless run in Championship continues following 1–1 draw with Burnley|url=https://www.skysports.com/football/barnsley-vs-burnley/report/262157|publisher=Sky Sports|date=27 November 2012|access-date=9 April 2021}} On 22 December 2012, Wallace scored his first goal of the season, scoring from a free kick, in a 2–2 draw against Birmingham City; up until now, he struggled to score goals since the start of the 2012–13 season.{{cite news|title=Birmingham City 2–2 Burnley|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/20738462|publisher=BBC Sport|date=22 December 2012|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Wallace wants to get on the goal trail|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/9955207.wallace-wants-get-goal-trail/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=28 September 2012|access-date=9 April 2021}} His second goal of the season came on 1 January 2013 against Sheffield Wednesday, scoring from a penalty and setting up a goal for Keith Treacy, in a 2–0 win.{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday 0–2 Burnley|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/20841196|publisher=BBC Sport|date=1 January 2013|access-date=9 April 2021}} Three weeks later on 26 January 2013, Wallace scored his third goal of the season, in a 2–1 win against Birmingham City.{{cite news|title=Burnley 1–2 Birmingham City|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/21095910|publisher=BBC Sport|date=26 January 2013|access-date=9 April 2021}} After months of speculation over his future at Burnley, he signed a two-year extension, keeping him until 2015 and in do so, took a pay cut.{{cite news|title=Wallace happy to stay at Burnley|url=http://www.burnleyexpress.net/sport/football/burnley-fc/wallace-happy-to-stay-at-burnley-1-5203247|publisher=Burnley Express|date=7 December 2012|access-date=19 January 2013|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160817023137/http://www.burnleyexpress.net/sport/burnley-fc/latest-news/wallace-happy-to-stay-at-burnley-1-5203247|archive-date=17 August 2016|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news|title=Pay cut for Burnley stars|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/10152840.pay-cut-burnley-stars/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=10 January 2013|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Burnley winger Ross Wallace signs two-year contract extension|url=http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/12691/8473879/Burnley-winger-Ross-Wallace-signs-two-year-contract-extension|publisher=Sky Sports|date=5 February 2013|access-date=5 February 2013|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160611054941/http://www.skysports.com/football/news/12691/8473879/Burnley-winger-Ross-Wallace-signs-two-year-contract-extension|archive-date=11 June 2016|url-status=dead}} However, Wallace suffered a hamstring injury that kept him out for weeks.{{cite news|title=Burnley boss eyes quick recovery for injured trio|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/10219511.burnley-boss-eyes-quick-recovery-injured-trio/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=11 February 2013|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Full time: Burnley 0 Middlesbrough 0|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/10238283.full-time-burnley-0-middlesbrough-0/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=19 February 2013|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Dyche wants Clarets to match fans' expectations|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/10278194.dyche-wants-clarets-match-fans-expectations/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=9 March 2013|access-date=9 April 2021}} It was not until 11 March 2013 when he made his return to the starting line–up, and played 84 minutes before being substituted, in a 1–0 loss against Hull City.{{cite news|title=Championship: Hull go second after victory at Burnley|url=https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11714/8557937/championship-hull-go-second-after-victory-at-burnley|publisher=Sky Sports|date=12 March 2013|access-date=9 April 2021}} Following this, Wallace started in the next seven matches, playing in the right midfield position before being dropped to the substitute bench for the rest of the 2012–13 season.{{cite news|title=FULL TIME: Blackburn Rovers 1 Burnley 1|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/10295074.full-time-blackburn-rovers-1-burnley-1/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=17 March 2013|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Burnley won 3–1 at Turf Moor to leave Bristol City eight points adrift of safety|url=https://www.skysports.com/football/burnley-vs-bristol-c/262381|publisher=Sky Sports|date=6 April 2013|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=TEAM NEWS: Wolves v Burnley|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/10384605.team-news-wolves-v-burnley/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=27 April 2013|access-date=9 April 2021}} At the end of the 2012–13 season, he went on to make forty appearances and scoring three times in all competitions.
Wallace started in the first three league matches of the 2013–14 season, playing in the right–midfield position.{{cite news|title=Burnley 1–1 Bolton Wanderers|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/23474674|publisher=BBC Sport|date=3 August 2013|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday 1–2 Burnley|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/23558575|publisher=BBC Sport|date=10 August 2013|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Burnley 2–0 Yeovil Town|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/23644641|publisher=BBC Sport|date=17 August 2013|access-date=9 April 2021}} However, he suffered a knee injury that kept him out for five months after having a surgery.{{cite news|title=Burnley winger Wallace set for surgery|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/10628410.burnley-winger-wallace-set-surgery/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=22 August 2013|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Burnley won't make knee-jerk signing after Wallace injury|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/10631363.burnley-wont-make-knee-jerk-signing-wallace-injury/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=23 August 2013|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Wallace will be like a new signing for Burnley|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/10836921.wallace-will-like-new-signing-burnley/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=27 November 2013|access-date=9 April 2021}} By January, Wallace made a recovery from a knee injury and was featured in a friendly match for the club's reserve match against Wolverhampton Wanderers' reserve.{{cite news|title=Fitness boost for Burnley winger Wallace|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/10917205.fitness-boost-burnley-winger-wallace/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=6 January 2014|access-date=9 April 2021}} After appearing as an unused substitute against Queens Park Rangers on 1 February 2014, he made his return to the first team, coming on as a late substitute, in a 3–1 win against Millwall seven days later.{{cite news|title=FULL TIME: QPR 3 Burnley 3|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/10981052.full-time-qpr-3-burnley-3/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=1 February 2014|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Burnley 3–1 Millwall|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/25994222|publisher=BBC Sport|date=8 February 2014|access-date=9 April 2021}} Following this, Wallace found himself in and out of the starting line–up for the rest of the 2013–14 season, due to competitions in the midfield position.{{cite news|title=Conditions played a part in draw, says Burnley boss Dyche|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/11014302.conditions-played-part-draw-says-burnley-boss-dyche/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=16 February 2014|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Wallace: I knew that big things were going to happen under boss Dyche|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/11040358.wallace-knew-big-things-going-happen-boss-dyche/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=27 February 2014|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=PLAYER RATINGS: Birmingham City v Burnley|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/11075321.player-ratings-birmingham-city-v-burnley/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=13 March 2014|access-date=9 April 2021}} His return to the first team saw Burnley promoted to the Premier League after beating Wigan Athletic 2–0 on 21 April 2014.{{cite news|title=Burnley 2–0 Wigan Athletic|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/27016258|publisher=BBC Sport|date=21 April 2014|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=A real champagne moment for Burnley winger Wallace|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/11165748.real-champagne-moment-burnley-winger-wallace/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=23 April 2014|access-date=9 April 2021}} At the end of the 2013–14 season, he went on to make fifteen appearances in all competitions.
However at the start of the 2014–15 season, Wallace found his playing time, coming from the substitute bench.{{cite news|title=PLAYER RATINGS: West Brom 4 Burnley 0|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/11501889.player-ratings-west-brom-4-burnley-0/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=28 September 2014|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Andrew Greaves column: No need to panic – Clarets have reasons to be positive|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/11733616.andrew-greaves-column-no-need-panic---clarets-reasons-positive/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=19 January 2015|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Blow for Burnley as Dean Marney ruled out for the season|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/11782751.blow-burnley-dean-marney-ruled-season/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=10 February 2015|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Burnley boss Sean Dyche insists his side will cope with pressure during Premier League run-in|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/11838650.burnley-boss-sean-dyche-insists-side-will-cope-pressure-premier-league-run-in/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=6 March 2015|access-date=9 April 2021}} He made his first appearance of the season, starting the whole game, in a 1–0 loss against Sheffield Wednesday in the second round of the League Cup on 26 August 2014.{{cite news|title=MATCH REPORT: Burnley 0 Sheffield Wednesday 1|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/11433704.match-report-burnley-0-sheffield-wednesday-1/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=27 August 2014|access-date=9 April 2021}} Wallace scored his first Premier League goal in seven years, in a 2–2 draw against Leicester City on 4 October 2014.{{cite news|title=Leicester City 2–2 Burnley|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/29389664|publisher=BBC Sport|date=4 October 2014|access-date=9 April 2021}} He then scored his second goal of the season, in a 4–2 loss against Tottenham Hotspur in the third round FA Cup replay on 14 January 2015.{{cite news|title=Tottenham Hotspur 4–2 Burnley|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/30706058|publisher=BBC Sport|date=14 January 2015|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=MATCH ANALYSIS: Tottenham Hotspur 4 Burnley 2|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/11724666.match-analysis-tottenham-hotspur-4-burnley-2/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=15 January 2015|access-date=9 April 2021}} However, Wallace was sidelined on two occasions towards the end of the 2014–15 season.{{cite news|title=Clean sheets are pleasing Burnley boss Sean Dyche|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/12873658.clean-sheets-pleasing-burnley-boss-sean-dyche/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=6 April 2015|access-date=9 April 2021}} Following this, Wallace was released by Burnley after five seasons with the club, making a total of 165 appearances in all competitions, scoring 14 times.{{cite news|title=Wallace Set To Leave Turf Moor|url=http://www.burnleyfootballclub.com/news/article/wallace-set-to-leave-turf-moor-2462119.aspx|publisher=Burnley F.C.|date=19 May 2015|access-date=1 June 2015|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150519203046/http://www.burnleyfootballclub.com/news/article/wallace-set-to-leave-turf-moor-2462119.aspx|archive-date=19 May 2015|url-status=dead}}
=Sheffield Wednesday=
On 10 July 2015, Wallace joined Championship team Sheffield Wednesday on a one-year deal following his release from Burnley.{{cite news|title=Wallace moves to Sheffield Wednesday|url=http://www.swfc.co.uk/news/article/wallace-moves-to-sheffield-wednesday-2538224.aspx|publisher=Sheffield Wednesday F.C.|date=10 July 2015|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150710222430/http://www.swfc.co.uk/news/article/wallace-moves-to-sheffield-wednesday-2538224.aspx|archive-date=10 July 2015|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news|title=Alex Lopez, Lewis Price and Ross Wallace join Sheffield Wednesday|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/33477557|publisher=BBC Sport|date=10 July 2015|access-date=9 April 2021}} Upon joining the club, he was given a number thirty–three shirt.{{cite web|url=https://www.swfc.co.uk/news/2015/july/sheffield-wednesday-squad-numbers-revealed-for-201516/|title=Sheffield Wednesday squad numbers revealed for 2015/16|publisher=Sheffield Wednesday F.C.|date=31 July 2015|access-date=9 April 2021|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20180315133433/https://www.swfc.co.uk/news/2015/july/sheffield-wednesday-squad-numbers-revealed-for-201516/|archive-date=15 March 2018|url-status=live}}
Wallace made his debut for Sheffield Wednesday in the opening game of the season against Bristol City and set up a goal for Lewis McGugan, in a 2–0 win.{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday 2–0 Bristol City|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/33744206|publisher=BBC Sport|date=8 August 2015|access-date=9 April 2021}} In a follow–up match, he scored his first goal for the club in a 2–1 defeat at Ipswich Town.{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/33831744|title=Ipswich Town 2–1 Sheffield Wednesday|publisher=BBC Sport|date=15 August 2015|access-date=7 September 2015}} Since joining Sheffield Wednesday, Wallace quickly established himself in the first team, playing in the either the left–midfield position and right–midfield position.{{cite web|url=http://www.thestar.co.uk/sport/sheff-weds/sheff-weds-news/sheffield-wednesday-there-s-more-to-come-from-owls-claims-wing-merchant-1-7606255|title= Sheffield Wednesday: There's more to come from Owls, claims wing merchant|work=The Star|date=4 December 2015|access-date=9 April 2021|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20151210055019/http://www.thestar.co.uk/sport/sheff-weds/sheff-weds-news/sheffield-wednesday-there-s-more-to-come-from-owls-claims-wing-merchant-1-7606255|archive-date=10 December 2015|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday: 'New lease of life' for wing merchant|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/sport/football/sheffield-wednesday/latest-owls-news/sheffield-wednesday-new-lease-life-wing-merchant-464502|work=The Star|date=11 December 2015|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday: Owls legend slams squad rotation policy|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/sport/football/sheffield-wednesday/latest-owls-news/sheffield-wednesday-owls-legend-slams-squad-rotation-policy-463308|work=The Star|date=30 December 2015|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday: One Hull of a test in store for Owls|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/sheffield-wednesday-one-hull-test-store-owls-71554|work=The Star|date=25 February 2016|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday: Strong competition for places key to play-off tilt, says Owls goal ace|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/sheffield-wednesday-strong-competition-places-key-play-tilt-says-owls-goal-ace-64916|work=The Star|date=7 April 2016|access-date=9 April 2021}} In a match against Fulham on 19 September 2015, he provided a hat–trick assists, in a 3–2 win.{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday 3–2 Fulham|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/34229725|publisher=BBC Sport|date=19 September 2015|access-date=9 April 2021}} Wallace quickly made an impact since joining the club and was awarded PFA Fans' Players of the Month for August and September.{{cite web|url=http://www.thestar.co.uk/sport/sheff-weds/sheff-weds-news/wednesday-carlos-carvalhal-s-praise-for-ross-wallace-1-7500339|title=Wednesday: Carlos Carvalhal's praise for Ross Wallace|work=The Star|date=7 October 2015|access-date=9 April 2021|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20151015091515/http://www.thestar.co.uk/sport/sheff-weds/sheff-weds-news/wednesday-carlos-carvalhal-s-praise-for-ross-wallace-1-7500339|archive-date=15 October 2015|url-status=dead}} A month later on 27 October 2015, he scored his second goal for Sheffield Wednesday and then set up a goal for Lucas João, in a 3–0 win against Arsenal in the fourth round of the League Cup.{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday 3–0 Arsenal|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/34578025|publisher=BBC Sport|date=27 October 2015|access-date=9 April 2021}} Wallace then scored his third goal for the club came in a 1–0 win over Fulham on 2 January 2016 in the Championship; a 25-yard dipping shot after cutting in from the right wing.{{cite news|title=Fulham 0–1 Sheffield Wednesday|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/34229725|publisher=BBC Sport|date=2 January 2016|access-date=9 April 2021}} His next goal for Sheffield Wednesday came on 5 April 2016 against Blackburn Rovers and scoring a winning goal, in a 2–1 win.{{cite news|title=Full Time Report: Sheffield Wednesday 2 Blackburn Rovers 1|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/full-time-report-sheffield-wednesday-2-blackburn-rovers-1-65032|work=The Star|date=5 April 2016|access-date=9 April 2021}} However in a match against Milton Keynes Dons on 19 April 2016, he received a straight red card after an off the ball incident with Jonny Williams, in a 0–0 draw.{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday 0–0 Milton Keynes Dons|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/36021296|publisher=BBC Sport|date=19 April 2016|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Match Analysis: Sheffield Wednesday 0 MK Dons 0 – Off night for Owls|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/match-analysis-sheffield-wednesday-0-mk-dons-0-night-owls-64268|work=The Star|date=20 April 2016|access-date=9 April 2021}} After serving a three match suspension, Wallace returned to the starting line–up against Brighton & Hove Albion in the first leg of the Championshup play–offs and scored in a 2–0 win.{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday: Uncharted territory for Owls boss|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/sheffield-wednesday-uncharted-territory-owls-boss-63481|work=The Star|date=9 May 2016|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday 2–0 Brighton & Hove Albion|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/36238770|publisher=BBC Sport|date=13 May 2016|access-date=9 April 2021}} In the return leg, he scored the equalising goal to help the club reach the final.{{cite news|title=Brighton & Hove Albion 1–1 Sheffield Wednesday|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/36244725|publisher=BBC Sport|date=16 May 2016|access-date=9 April 2021}} In the Football League Championship play-off final against Hull City, Wallace started and played 64 minutes before being substituted, as Sheffield Wednesday lost 1–0.{{cite news|title=Hull City 1–0 Sheffield Wednesday|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/36348885|publisher=BBC Sport|date=28 May 2016|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Video: Sheffield Wednesday fans even better than Celtic, says emotional Ross Wallace|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/video-sheffield-wednesday-fans-even-better-celtic-says-emotional-ross-wallace-62159|work=The Star|date=29 May 2016|access-date=9 April 2021}} Despite missing two matches during the 2015–16 season, Wallace went on to make forty–eight appearances and scoring six times in all competitions.{{cite news|title=Bolton 0–0 Sheffield Wednesday: Trotters again fail to find net in stalemate|url=https://www.skysports.com/football/bolton-vs-sheff-wed/339604|publisher=Sky Sports|date=15 September 2016|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Middlesbrough 1 Sheffield Wednesday 0: Match verdict|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/sport/football/sheffield-wednesday/latest-owls-news/middlesbrough-1-sheffield-wednesday-0-match-verdict-463414|work=The Star|date=28 December 2015|access-date=9 April 2021}} Having expressed interest on staying with the club and beyond, he signed a new contract with Sheffield Wednesday, keeping him until 2018.{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday: The turning point in Owls' season|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/sheffield-wednesday-turning-point-owls-season-461362|work=The Star|date=2 February 2016|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday: Winger Ross Wallace eyes up long-term Owls deal|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/sheffield-wednesday-winger-ross-wallace-eyes-long-term-owls-deal-65448|work=The Star|date=31 March 2016|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday: Ross Wallace confident he will get new Owls deal|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/sheffield-wednesday-ross-wallace-confident-he-will-get-new-owls-deal-62041|work=The Star|date=1 June 2016|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Ross Wallace: Sheffield Wednesday winger signs new contract|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/36786576|publisher=BBC Sport|date=13 July 2016|access-date=9 April 2021}}
At the start of the 2016–17 season, Wallace continued to establish himself in the first team, playing in the right midfield position.{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday match report: Norwich City 0 Owls 0|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/sheffield-wednesday-match-report-norwich-city-0-owls-0-455485|work=The Star|date=13 August 2016|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday: Ross Wallace vows to reclaim Owls starting spot|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/sheffield-wednesday-ross-wallace-vows-reclaim-owls-starting-spot-453517|work=The Star|date=1 November 2016|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday: Old guard help Owls get campaign back on track|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/sheffield-wednesday-old-guard-help-owls-get-campaign-back-track-452229|work=The Star|date=22 November 2016|access-date=9 April 2021}} By November, he began to find his playing time, coming from the substitute bench, with manager Carlos Carvalhal commentating on Wallace: "He is a player who wasn't playing in the first XI in the last games but if you saw it all the time when he was on the pitch he was the player who had the most effect on the game so far. He didn't play but when he goes inside the pitch, he tried to change things, he tried to give a new dynamic he did well and trued a lot to do this."{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday: We're getting more street smart says Ross Wallace|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/sheffield-wednesday-were-getting-more-street-smart-says-ross-wallace-453671|work=The Star|date=29 October 2016|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday: Carlos Carvalhal tells players to learn from Ross Wallace|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/sheffield-wednesday-carlos-carvalhal-tells-players-learn-ross-wallace-452346|work=The Star|date=18 November 2016|access-date=9 April 2021}} But Wallace soon regained his first team place in the starting line–up.{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday match report: Wolves 0 Owls 2|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/sheffield-wednesday-match-report-wolves-0-owls-2-451912|work=The Star|date=26 November 2016|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday: Owls dug deep to beat Reds, says Ross Wallace|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/sheffield-wednesday-owls-dug-deep-beat-reds-says-ross-wallace-450745|work=The Star|date=15 December 2016|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Dom Howson's Sheffield Wednesday column: Ross Wallace has proven a shrewd bit of business by the Owls|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/dom-howsons-sheffield-wednesday-column-ross-wallace-has-proven-shrewd-bit-business-owls-446153|work=The Star|date=10 March 2017|access-date=9 April 2021}} After suffering an eight months goal drought, he ended this drought by scoring from a 25-yard piledriver in a 2–0 win against Huddersfield Town on 14 January 2017.{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday 2–0 Huddersfield Town|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/38538977|publisher=BBC Sport|date=14 January 2017|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday match report: Owls 2 Huddersfield Town 0|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/sheffield-wednesday-match-report-owls-2-huddersfield-town-0-449330|work=The Star|date=14 January 2017|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday: Why Ross Wallace is an internet sensation again ... Owls 2 Huddersfield Town 0|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/sheffield-wednesday-why-ross-wallace-internet-sensation-again-owls-2-huddersfield-town-0-449283|work=The Star|date=15 January 2017|access-date=9 April 2021}} Two weeks later on 31 January 2017, Wallace scored his second goal of the season, in a 2–2 draw against Bristol City.{{cite news|title=Match report: Bristol City 2 Sheffield Wednesday 2 – Owls drop out of play-off places|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/match-report-bristol-city-2-sheffield-wednesday-2-owls-drop-out-play-places-448208|work=The Star|date=31 January 2017|access-date=9 April 2021}} This was followed by scoring his third goal of the season, in a 1–0 win against Wigan Athletic.{{cite news|title=Match report: Wigan Athletic 0 Sheffield Wednesday 1 – Rhodes makes mark as Owls edge out strugglers|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/match-report-wigan-athletic-0-sheffield-wednesday-1-rhodes-makes-mark-owls-edge-out-strugglers-447976|work=The Star|date=3 February 2017|access-date=9 April 2021}} Following this, manager Carvalhal praised his performance on regaining his form.{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday: Carlos Carvalhal lavishes praise on in-form Owls star Ross Wallace|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/sheffield-wednesday-carlos-carvalhal-lavishes-praise-form-owls-star-ross-wallace-447815|work=The Star|date=7 February 2017|access-date=9 April 2021}} As a result, he was awarded the club's Player of the Month for January and March.{{cite web|url=https://www.swfc.co.uk/news/2017/february/ross-wallace-voted-player-of-the-month/|title=Ross Wallace voted Player of the Month|publisher=Sheffield Wednesday F.C.|date=6 February 2017|access-date=9 April 2021|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20201205053444/https://www.swfc.co.uk/news/2017/february/ross-wallace-voted-player-of-the-month/|archive-date=5 December 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.swfc.co.uk/news/2017/march/wallace-voted-player-of-the-month/|title=Wallace voted Player of the Month|publisher=Sheffield Wednesday F.C.|date=25 March 2017|access-date=9 April 2021|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20201028052208/https://www.swfc.co.uk/news/2017/march/wallace-voted-player-of-the-month/|archive-date=28 October 2020|url-status=live}} Wallace set up two goals in the next two matches against Birmingham City and Blackburn Rovers.{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday 3 Birmingham City 0: Rhodes and Winnall off the mark in win over Blues|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/sheffield-wednesday-3-birmingham-city-0-rhodes-and-winnall-mark-win-over-blues-447336|work=The Star|date=10 February 2017|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday 2–1 Blackburn Rovers|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/38889066|publisher=BBC Sport|date=14 February 2017|access-date=9 April 2021}} He added two more goals, coming against Norwich City and Burton Albion between 4 March 2017 and 7 March 2017.{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday 5–1 Norwich City|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/39086229|publisher=BBC Sport|date=4 March 2017|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday 1–1 Burton Albion|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/39111415|publisher=BBC Sport|date=7 March 2017|access-date=9 April 2021}} After missing two matches due to a knee injury, Wallace returned to the starting line–up and set up two goals in two matches between 4 April 2017 and 8 April 2017 against Rotherham United and Newcastle United.{{cite news|title=Video: '˜Toughest week of my career,' admits Carlos Carvalhal as Sheffield Wednesday lose to Reading FC|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/video-toughest-week-my-career-admits-carlos-carvalhal-sheffield-wednesday-lose-reading-fc-445509|work=The Star|date=17 March 2017|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday: Carvalhal expecting FOUR key men to return for Barnsley clash after international break|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/sheffield-wednesday-carvalhal-expecting-four-key-men-return-barnsley-clash-after-international-break-445052|work=The Star|date=20 March 2017|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Carlos Carvalhal: Sheffield Wednesday boss lacking right ingredients|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/39483450|publisher=BBC Sport|date=3 April 2017|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Rotherham United 0–2 Sheffield Wednesday|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/39414008|publisher=BBC Sport|date=4 April 2017|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday 2–1 Newcastle United|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/39464957|publisher=BBC Sport|date=8 April 2017|access-date=9 April 2021}} Having determined to help Sheffield Wednesday to reach the Premier League, he helped the club qualify for the Championship play–offs after helping Sheffield Wednesday beat Ipswich Town on 29 April 2017.{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday: Ross Wallace refuses to give up on top-two tilt|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/sheffield-wednesday-ross-wallace-refuses-give-top-two-tilt-451426|work=The Star|date=3 December 2016|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday: Owls seek to turn up the heat on promotion rivals|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/sheffield-wednesday-owls-seek-turn-heat-promotion-rivals-447216|work=The Star|date=10 February 2017|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Ipswich Town 0–1 Sheffield Wednesday|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/39675689|publisher=BBC Sport|date=29 April 2017|access-date=9 April 2021}} In the second leg of the Championship play–offs semi–final against Huddersfield Town, however, he suffered an injury and was substituted in the 5th minute, as the club went on to lose 4–3 on penalties following a 1–1 draw.{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday 1–1 Huddersfield Town (Huddersfield Town win 4–3 on penalties)|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/39866499|publisher=BBC Sport|date=17 May 2017|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Dom Howson's Sheffield Wednesday column: Owls can take a leaf out of promoted Brighton's book|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/dom-howsons-sheffield-wednesday-column-owls-can-take-leaf-out-promoted-brightons-book-470834|work=The Star|date=17 May 2017|access-date=9 April 2021}} Despite missing a total of five matches throughout the 2016–17 season, Wallace went on to make forty–five appearances and scoring five times in all competitions.{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday match report: Brentford 1 Owls 1|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/sheffield-wednesday-match-report-brentford-1-owls-1-454873|work=The Star|date=27 August 2016|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday: Perfect present for birthday boy Carvalhal|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/sheffield-wednesday-perfect-present-birthday-boy-carvalhal-451452|work=The Star|date=4 December 2016|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday: Lucas Joao can solve the Owls' striker shortage|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/sheffield-wednesday-lucas-joao-can-solve-owls-striker-shortage-451305|work=The Star|date=10 December 2016|access-date=9 April 2021}}
At the start of the 2017–18 season, Wallace found himself in and out of the starting line–up, playing in different positions.{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday: Sam Hutchinson closes in on Owls return|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/sheffield-wednesday-sam-hutchinson-closes-owls-return-443570|work=The Star|date=22 September 2017|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday fans column: Gary Hooper deserves all the plaudits coming his way|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/sheffield-wednesday-fans-column-gary-hooper-deserves-all-plaudits-coming-his-way-442645|work=The Star|date=6 October 2017|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday: Jordan Rhodes urged to push on after Millwall winner|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/sheffield-wednesday-jordan-rhodes-urged-push-after-millwall-winner-443267|work=The Star|date=1 November 2017|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Video: The tactical changes Lee Bullen made to spearhead Sheffield Wednesday's win at Nottingham Forest|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/video-tactical-changes-lee-bullen-made-spearhead-sheffield-wednesdays-win-nottingham-forest-440482|work=The Star|date=26 December 2017|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Match Analysis: Middlesbrough 0 Sheffield Wednesday 0 – Records broken with another Owls stalemate|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/match-analysis-middlesbrough-0-sheffield-wednesday-0-records-broken-another-owls-stalemate-438258|work=The Star|date=30 January 2018|access-date=9 April 2021}} He made his 100th appearance for Sheffield Wednesday, in a 3–1 win against Nottingham Forest on 9 September 2017.{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday 3–1 Nottingham Forest|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/41132931|publisher=BBC Sport|date=9 September 2017|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.swfc.co.uk/news/2017/september/owls-duo-hit-milestones/|title=Owls duo hit milestones|publisher=Sheffield Wednesday F.C.|date=9 September 2017|access-date=9 April 2021|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200920174648/https://www.swfc.co.uk/news/2017/september/owls-duo-hit-milestones/|archive-date=20 September 2020|url-status=live}} Wallace scored his first goal of the season, which turns out to be the winning goal, in a 2–1 win against Brentford on 12 September 2017.{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday 2–1 Brentford|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/41156263|publisher=BBC Sport|date=12 September 2017|access-date=9 April 2021}} He then scored his second goal of the season, in a 2–1 loss against Middlesbrough on 23 December 2017.{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday 1–2 Middlesbrough|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/42375399|publisher=BBC Sport|date=23 December 2017|access-date=9 April 2021}} However, during a 2–1 loss against Millwall on 20 February 2018, playing in the false nine position, Wallace suffered a knee injury and was substituted in the 79th minute.{{cite news|title=Why Owls boss Jos Luhukay started without a striker in Sheffield Wednesday's defeat to Millwall|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/why-owls-boss-jos-luhukay-started-without-striker-sheffield-wednesdays-defeat-millwall-437011|work=The Star|date=20 February 2018|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Match Analysis: Millwall 2 Sheffield Wednesday 1 – No strikers start as Owls lack bite against Lions|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/match-analysis-millwall-2-sheffield-wednesday-1-no-strikers-start-owls-lack-bite-against-lions-437013|work=The Star|date=20 February 2018|access-date=9 April 2021}} After the match, it was announced that he would be sidelined for the rest of the 2017–18 season.{{cite news|title=Sheffield Wednesday: Owls ease fears over Kieran Lee's injury|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/sheffield-wednesday-owls-ease-fears-over-kieran-lees-injury-441454|work=The Star|date=4 November 2017|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Rested Sheffield Wednesday star all set for recall against Swansea City as Luhukay makes his goalkeeper pick|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/rested-sheffield-wednesday-star-all-set-recall-against-swansea-city-luhukay-makes-his-goalkeeper-pick-437216|work=The Star|date=16 February 2018|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Video: Sheffield Wednesday struck by yet another long-term injury – Midfielder out for the rest of the season|url=https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/video-sheffield-wednesday-struck-yet-another-long-term-injury-midfielder-out-rest-season-343580|work=The Star|date=24 February 2018|access-date=9 April 2021}} At the end of the 2017–18 season, Wallace went on to make thirty–one appearances and scoring two times in all competitions. With one game to play in the 2017–18 season, it was announced that his contract would not be renewed and he would be leaving at the end of the season.{{cite web|title=Owls announce 2017/18 retained list|url=https://www.swfc.co.uk/news/2018/may/owls-announce-201718-retained-list/|publisher=Sheffield Wednesday F.C.|date=1 May 2018|access-date=3 May 2018|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20180502200102/https://www.swfc.co.uk/news/2018/may/owls-announce-201718-retained-list/|archive-date=2 May 2018|url-status=live}}
In March 2020, Wallace drew criticism when he commented positively about the departure of manager Carvalhal.{{cite news|title=Ross Wallace reveals shocking comment about ex-Sheffield Wednesday boss Carlos Carvalhal's exit|url=https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/wallace-carvahal-wednesday-sacking-comments-17934413|publisher=Yorkshire Live|date=16 March 2020|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Ross Wallace's 'disrespectful' jibe towards ex-Sheffield Wednesday boss Carlos Carvalhal is bang out of order|url=https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/football/news/ross-wallaces-disrespectful-jibe-towards-17936046|publisher=Yorkshire Live|date=16 March 2020|access-date=9 April 2021}} Manager Carvalhal responded to Wallace's claims by tweeting on his Twitter account: "Ross did a very good contribution in the first 2 seasons and I must respect this...."{{cite news|title=Carlos Carvalhal issues classy response to Ross Wallace's jibe about Sheffield Wednesday exit|url=https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/carlos-carvalhal-issues-classy-response-17979919|publisher=Yorkshire Live|date=25 March 2020|access-date=9 April 2021}}
=Fleetwood Town=
Following his release by Sheffield Wednesday, Wallace went on trial at Wigan Athletic and was featured in a friendly match against Tranmere Rovers on 14 July 2018, but failed to win a contract despite impressing the club.{{cite news|title=Tranmere test for Wigan Athletic '˜trialists'|url=https://www.wigantoday.net/sport/football/tranmere-test-wigan-athletic-trialists-1013733|publisher=Wigan Today|date=14 July 2018|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Tranmere Rovers 1 Wigan Athletic 2|url=https://www.wigantoday.net/sport/football/tranmere-rovers-1-wigan-athletic-2-1013721|publisher=Wigan Today|date=14 July 2018|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Heat is on for Wigan Athletic trio!|url=https://www.wigantoday.net/sport/football/heat-wigan-athletic-trio-703480|publisher=Wigan Today|date=17 July 2018|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Wigan Athletic midfielder departs|url=https://www.wigantoday.net/sport/football/wigan-athletic-midfielder-departs-702879|publisher=Wigan Today|date=23 July 2018|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title='˜Big week ahead' for Wigan Athletic boss after setback|url=https://www.wigantoday.net/sport/football/big-week-ahead-wigan-athletic-boss-after-setback-702398|publisher=Wigan Today|date=29 July 2018|access-date=9 April 2021}} He then went on trial at EFL League One club Fleetwood Town.{{cite news|title=Joey Barton boosted as Ryan Taylor and Ross Wallace train with Fleetwood|url=https://www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk/sport/football/joey-barton-boosted-ryan-taylor-and-ross-wallace-train-fleetwood-999846|publisher=Blackpool Gazette|date=5 September 2018|access-date=9 April 2021}} On 21 September 2018, following a successful trial period, Wallace joined the club.{{cite news|title=Joey Barton: I would like triallists Ryan Taylor and Ross Wallace to join my Fleetwood Town team|url=https://www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk/sport/football/joey-barton-i-would-triallists-ryan-taylor-and-ross-wallace-join-my-fleetwood-town-team-57720|publisher=Blackpool Gazette|date=20 September 2018|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news |title=Ross Wallace signs for the Cod Army|url=https://www.fleetwoodtownfc.com/news/2018/september/ross-wallace-signs-for-the-cod-army/|access-date=21 September 2018|publisher=Fleetwood Town F.C.|date=21 September 2018|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20210127095036/https://www.fleetwoodtownfc.com/news/2018/september/ross-wallace-signs-for-the-cod-army/|archive-date=27 January 2021|url-status=live}}
The following day, he made his debut for Fleetwood Town, coming on as a 59th-minute substitute, in a 1–0 loss against Southend United.{{cite news|title=MATCH REPORT: Southend 1 Fleetwood 0|url=https://www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk/sport/football/match-report-southend-1-fleetwood-0-575519|publisher=Blackpool Gazette|date=22 September 2018|access-date=9 April 2021}} Since joining the club, Wallace quickly established himself in the first team, playing in the centre midfield position.{{cite news|title=Fleetwood Town boss Joey Barton lifts the lid on 'disagreement' with midfielder Bobby Grant|url=https://www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk/sport/football/fleetwood-town-boss-joey-barton-lifts-lid-disagreement-midfielder-bobby-grant-568903|publisher=Blackpool Gazette|date=3 October 2018|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Fleetwood Town 0 Walsall 0: Player ratings|url=https://www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk/sport/football/fleetwood-town-0-walsall-0-player-ratings-211222|publisher=Blackpool Gazette|date=18 November 2018|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Ross Wallace has fallen in love with Fleetwood Town|url=https://www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk/sport/football/ross-wallace-has-fallen-love-fleetwood-town-201780|publisher=Blackpool Gazette|date=27 November 2018|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Fleetwood Town 2 Oxford United 2: Player ratings|url=https://www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk/sport/football/fleetwood-town-2-oxford-united-2-player-ratings-158663|publisher=Blackpool Gazette|date=13 January 2019|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=MATCH REPORT: Fleetwood Town 1 Charlton 0|url=https://www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk/sport/football/match-report-fleetwood-town-1-charlton-0-140046|publisher=Blackpool Gazette|date=2 February 2019|access-date=9 April 2021}} At times, he rotated in playing in different positions in the defence and midfield.{{cite news|title=PLAYER RATINGS: Fleetwood 1 Barnsley 3|url=https://www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk/sport/football/player-ratings-fleetwood-1-barnsley-3-248373|publisher=Blackpool Gazette|date=30 September 2018|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title= PLAYER RATINGS: Peterborough 1 Fleetwood Town 0|url=https://www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk/sport/football/player-ratings-peterborough-1-fleetwood-town-0-553879|publisher=Blackpool Gazette|date=24 October 2018|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Luton Town 2 Fleetwood Town 0: Match report|url=https://www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk/sport/football/luton-town-2-fleetwood-town-0-match-report-192637|publisher=Blackpool Gazette|date=8 December 2018|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Fleetwood Town 3 Doncaster Rovers 0: Match Report|url=https://www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk/sport/football/fleetwood-town-3-doncaster-rovers-0-match-report-176752|publisher=Blackpool Gazette|date=26 December 2018|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Fleetwood Town 2 AFC Wimbledon 3: Verdict|url=https://www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk/sport/football/fleetwood-town-2-afc-wimbledon-3-verdict-171391|publisher=Blackpool Gazette|date=7 January 2019|access-date=9 April 2021}} On 18 October 2018, Wallace signed a contract with Fleetwood Town for the rest of the 2018–19 season.{{cite news|title=Fleetwood Town extend the contracts of trio Ross Wallace, James Wallace and Ryan Taylor until end of League One season|url=https://www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk/sport/football/fleetwood-town-extend-contracts-trio-ross-wallace-james-wallace-and-ryan-taylor-until-end-league-one-season-557600|publisher=Blackpool Gazette|date=18 October 2018|access-date=9 April 2021}} He then scored his first goal for the club and set up the opening game of the game, in a 3–2 win against Blackpool on 27 October 2018.{{cite news|title=Fleetwood Town 3–2 Blackpool|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/45923588|publisher=BBC Sport|date=27 October 2018|access-date=9 April 2021}} Since joining Fleetwood Town, Wallace appeared in every match until he missed two matches, due to suspension.{{cite news|title=VERDICT: Burton Albion 0 Fleetwood Town 1|url=https://www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk/sport/football/verdict-burton-albion-0-fleetwood-town-1-100339|publisher=Blackpool Gazette|date=25 February 2019|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Joey Barton: Good football and success key to getting next generation of Fylde coast kids to support Fleetwood Town rather than Blackpool or AFC Fylde|url=https://www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk/sport/football/joey-barton-good-football-and-success-key-getting-next-generation-fylde-coast-kids-support-fleetwood-town-rather-blackpool-or-afc-fylde-93375|publisher=Blackpool Gazette|date=1 March 2019|access-date=9 April 2021}} After serving a two match suspension, Wallace returned to the starting line–up against Walsall on 9 March 2019 and played 72 minutes before being substituted, in a 2–0 loss.{{cite news|title=Walsall 2 Fleetwood Town 0: MATCH REPORT|url=https://www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk/sport/football/walsall-2-fleetwood-town-0-match-report-83910|publisher=Blackpool Gazette|date=9 March 2019|access-date=9 April 2021}} Following his return from suspension, he continued to regain his first team place, playing in different midfield positions for the rest of the 2018–19 season.{{cite news|title=Coventry City 2 Fleetwood Town 1: MATCH REPORT|url=https://www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk/news/coventry-city-2-fleetwood-town-1-match-report-121834|publisher=Blackpool Gazette|date=12 March 2019|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Accrington Stanley 0 Fleetwood Town 1: Match report|url=https://www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk/sport/football/accrington-stanley-0-fleetwood-town-1-match-report-990532|publisher=Blackpool Gazette|date=30 March 2019|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=MATCH REPORT: Fleetwood Town 1 Peterborough United 1|url=https://www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk/sport/football/international-football/match-report-fleetwood-town-1-peterborough-united-1-983015|publisher=Blackpool Gazette|date=19 April 2019|access-date=9 April 2021}} At the end of the 2018–19 season, Wallace went on to make thirty–eight appearances and scoring once in all competitions. Following this, he was offered a new contract by the club.{{cite web|url=https://www.fleetwoodtownfc.com/news/2019/may/four-players-released-as-retained-list-announced/|title=Four players released as retained list announced|publisher=Fleetwood Town F.C.|date=10 May 2019|access-date=9 April 2021|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20210123235349/https://www.fleetwoodtownfc.com/news/2019/may/four-players-released-as-retained-list-announced/|archive-date=23 January 2021|url-status=live}}
On 10 August 2019, Wallace agreed to sign a contract with the club.{{cite news|title=Ross Wallace: Midfielder agrees new Fleetwood Town contract|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/49306096|publisher=BBC Sport|date=10 August 2019|access-date=9 April 2021}} However, he appeared four matches for Fleetwood Town, coming from the substitute bench.{{cite web|url=https://www.fleetwoodtownfc.com/news/2019/august/report-nottingham-forest-a/|title=Report: Town exit Carabao Cup despite impressive display at Forest|publisher=Fleetwood Town F.C.|date=13 August 2019|access-date=9 April 2021|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20210123021603/https://www.fleetwoodtownfc.com/news/2019/august/report-nottingham-forest-a/|archive-date=23 January 2021|url-status=live}}
{{cite news|title=Doncaster Rovers 3–2 Fleetwood Town|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/49302412|publisher=BBC Sport|date=17 August 2019|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Fleetwood Town 1–1 Wycombe Wanderers|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/49326906|publisher=BBC Sport|date=20 August 2019|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Fleetwood Town 2–0 Accrington Stanley|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/49378700|publisher=BBC Sport|date=24 August 2019|access-date=9 April 2021}} Having made four appearances in all competitions, the club announced the departure of Wallace despite recently signed a contract.{{cite web|title=Ross Wallace departs Fleetwood Town|url=https://www.fleetwoodtownfc.com/news/2019/september/ross-wallace-departs-fleetwood-town/|publisher=Fleetwood Town F.C.|access-date=2 September 2019|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20210122012809/https://www.fleetwoodtownfc.com/news/2019/september/ross-wallace-departs-fleetwood-town/|archive-date=22 January 2021|url-status=live}}
=St Mirren=
After five months without a club, Wallace signed a short-term contract with Scottish Premiership club St Mirren on 11 February 2020, making his return to his home country for the first time in fourteen years.{{cite web|title=Ross Wallace: Former Celtic winger joins St Mirren until end of season|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/51468178|website=BBC Sport|date=11 February 2020|access-date=11 February 2020}} Upon joining the club, he said he is aiming to help St Mirren avoid relegation.{{cite news|title=St Mirren signing Ross Wallace takes aim at another dream debut on return to Scotland|url=https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/local-sport/st-mirren-signing-ross-wallace-21498597|publisher=Daily Record|date=15 February 2020|access-date=9 April 2021}}
Wallace finally made his debut for the club, coming on as a 75th-minute substitute, in a 2–1 win against Motherwell on 25 February 2020.{{cite news|title=Motherwell 1 St Mirren 2 as İlkay Durmuş fires Buddies six points clear of basement boys Hearts|url=https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/football-match-reports/motherwell-1-st-mirren-2-21577126|publisher=Daily Record|date=25 February 2020|access-date=9 April 2021}} He made his first start for St Mirren, starting a match and playing 84 minutes before being substituted, in a 0–0 draw against St Johnstone on 4 March 2020.{{cite news|title=St Mirren 0–0 St Johnstone|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/51639074|publisher=BBC Sport|date=4 March 2020|access-date=9 April 2021}} Seven days later on 11 March 2020, Wallace set up a goal for Jonathan Obika to the score the only goal of the game, in a 1–0 win against Hearts, which turned out to the last game of the season and saw the opposition team relegated when the season was curtailed with the club finishing ninth place in the league because of the COVID-19 pandemic.{{cite news|title=St Mirren 1–0 Heart of Midlothian|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/51498748|publisher=BBC Sport|date=11 March 2020|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Celtic champions & Hearts relegated after SPFL ends season|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/52646282|website=BBC Sport|date=18 May 2020|access-date=9 April 2021}}{{cite news|title=Ross Wallace paints bleak Scottish football picture as ex-Celtic star makes chilling player prediction|url=https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/ross-wallace-paints-bleak-scottish-21888082|publisher=Daily Record|date=19 April 2020|access-date=9 April 2021}} At the end of the 2019–20 season, he went on to make three appearances in all competitions. Following this, it was announced on 2 May 2020 when Wallace was among thirteen players top leaving Saints when his contract expired.{{cite web|title=St Mirren: Captain McGinn and goalkeeper Hladky among 13 departures|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/52896832|work=BBC Sport|date=2 June 2020|access-date=2 June 2020}}
International career
Between 2002 and 2006, Wallace represented Scotland, playing from U18 and Scotland U21.{{cite news|title=Scotland youngsters remain upbeat over Turkey encounter|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12526313.scotland-youngsters-remain-upbeat-over-turkey-encounter/|publisher=Herald Scotland|date=27 October 2003|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Young Scots march on|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/internationals/scotland/3226743.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=30 October 2003|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Young Scots fall foul of the Finns|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12506482.young-scots-fall-foul-of-the-finns/|publisher=Herald Scotland|date=26 May 2004|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Vogts drops Pearson from squad|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12421207.vogts-drops-pearson-from-squad/|publisher=Herald Scotland|date=14 August 2004|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Anglo McEveley switches to Scots|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/internationals/5238860.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=2 August 2006|access-date=9 April 2021}}
In November 2007, Wallace was called up to the Scotland B team squad for the first time.{{cite news|title=Two out of Scots' Future squad|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/internationals/4484514.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=5 December 2005|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Scots B call-up for English trio|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/internationals/7087168.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=9 November 2007|access-date=9 April 2021}} He made his B team debut, starting the whole game, in a 1–1 draw against Republic of Ireland B team on 20 November 2007.{{cite news|title=Keane takes time on Yorke comeback|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/keane-takes-time-yorke-comeback-1505568|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=20 November 2007|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Scotland B 1–1 Rep of Ireland B|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/internationals/7100835.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=20 November 2007|access-date=9 April 2021}} Throughout his football career, Wallace made statements that moving to new clubs and performances would benefited his hopes of getting a call–up from the Scotland national team.{{cite news|title=Ambitious Wallace wants caps|url=https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/sport/938288.ambitious-wallace-wants-caps/|publisher=The Northern Echo|date=26 September 2006|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=I'm a victim of Scots' success|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/im-victim-scots-success-1504322|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=9 October 2007|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Wallace eyes international call|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/p/preston/7829544.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=15 January 2009|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Ross eyeing international recall|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/10217704.ross-eyeing-international-recall/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=9 February 2013|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Gordon Strachan: Scotland more confident, says coach before Lithuania test|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/41074480|publisher=BBC Sport|date=28 August 2017|access-date=9 April 2021}}
There were public calls from teammates and managers to convince the national team to call him to the squad, but was overlooked instead.{{cite news|title=Ross Wallace must take this chance to cement place in Scotland squad, says Preston boss Alan Irvine|url=https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/ross-wallace-must-take-this-chance-1038801|publisher=Daily Record|date=10 October 2009|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Alexander: Burnley winger Wallace can be a hit for Scotland|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/8322207.alexander-burnley-winger-wallace-can-hit-scotland/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=10 August 2010|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Lee Bullen: Ross Wallace deserves a Scotland chance.. but I fear his age will count against him|url=https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/lee-bullen-ross-wallace-deserves-6725287|publisher=Daily Record|date=29 October 2015|access-date=9 April 2021}} With the exception in October when he was called up to the national team squad.{{cite news|title=Fox earns first Scotland call-up|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/internationals/8284355.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=1 October 2009|access-date=9 April 2021}} Wallace made one full international appearance for Scotland, in a friendly match with Japan on 10 October 2009.{{cite news|title=Japan 2–0 Scotland|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/internationals/8290548.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=10 October 2009|access-date=9 April 2021}}{{SFA Profile|id=24867}}
Post-playing career
Following his release by St. Mirren, Wallace retired from professional football.{{cite news|title=Ex-Burnley favourite Ross Wallace back working at club's academy|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/19191421.ex-burnley-favourite-ross-wallace-back-working-clubs-academy/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=26 March 2021|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.burnleyfootballclub.com/content/wallace-wings-back-in|title=Wallace Wings Back In|publisher=Burnley F.C.|date=26 March 2021|access-date=9 April 2021|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20210408205342/https://www.burnleyfootballclub.com/content/wallace-wings-back-in|archive-date=8 April 2021|url-status=live}} He previously announced his intention to move to coaching once his playing days is over. In March 2021, Wallace re–joined Burnley as club's youth development.
In December 2023, he returned to Fleetwood Town as first-team coach.https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/67853276, Charlie Adam: Fleetwood Town name ex-Scotland midfielder as new head coach, BBC Football, 31 December 2023
Personal life
Early in his football career, Wallace developed a reputation for taking off his shirt after scoring a goal.{{cite news|title=Wallace to cut out scoring strips|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/s/sunderland/6101570.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=31 October 2006|access-date=9 April 2021}} After his sending off against Hull City on 28 October 2006, Wallace said he would stop taking off his shirt and learn from his mistake.{{cite news|title=I'll keep my cool|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/ill-keep-my-cool-1554131|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=30 October 2006|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Wallace determined to curtail his stripping instincts|url=https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/sport/992909.wallace-determined-curtail-stripping-instincts/|publisher=The Northern Echo|date=30 October 2006|access-date=9 April 2021}} In response, manager Keane said he had no sympathy for Wallace, but decided against "crucify him" and hope the player learned his lesson.{{cite news|title=Boss has no sympathy for Wallace|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/boss-no-sympathy-wallace-1554243|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=30 October 2006|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Wallace learns his lesson|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/wallace-learns-his-lesson-1555706|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=11 November 2006|access-date=9 April 2021}} After scoring his first goal in the Premier League, he took off his shirt once again and was booked as a result.{{cite news|title=Hero Wallace gives Royals shirt shrift!|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/hero-wallace-gives-royals-shirt-1503621|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=17 September 2007|access-date=9 April 2021}} After the match, Wallace, once again, apologised and promised not to do it again, but did not express regret over his actions.{{cite news|title=Wallace: Fine is worth it|url=http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11695/2736420/|publisher=Sky Sports|date=17 September 2007|access-date=19 January 2013|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305002731/http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11695/2736420|archive-date=5 March 2016|url-status=dead}} He acknowledged of facing a fine from manager Keane.{{cite news|title=Ross paying for the jersey|url=https://www.glasgowtimes.co.uk/news/12803658.ross-paying-for-the-jersey/|publisher=Glasgow Evening Times|date=18 September 2007|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Ross Wallace describes the lighter, funnier side of former Sunderland boss Roy Keane|url=https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/ross-wallace-roy-keane-sunderland-18224913|publisher=Chronicle Live|date=10 May 2020|access-date=9 April 2021}} Two years later, Wallace was again sent–off for taking off his shirt after celebrating a goal against Birmingham City, which turned to be a winning goal, in a 2–1 win on 25 April 2009 and was suspended for one match.{{cite news|title=Ex-Celt Ross in play-off gamble|url=https://www.glasgowtimes.co.uk/news/12827552.ex-celt-ross-in-play-off-gamble/|publisher=Glasgow Evening Times|date=8 May 2009|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Memory match: Nine-man Preston North End win at Birmingham City in 2009|url=https://www.lep.co.uk/sport/football/preston-north-end/pne-news/memory-match-nine-man-preston-north-end-win-birmingham-city-2009-663456|publisher=Lancashire Evening Post|date=19 September 2019|access-date=9 April 2021}}
{{cite news|title=Preston North End 2 QPR 1|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/football/4339571.preston-north-end-2-qpr-1/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=3 May 2009|access-date=9 April 2021}}
In October 2013, Wallace became a victim of Death hoax when a Twitter users tweeted that he died in a car crash.{{cite news|title=Trolls slammed over fake tweets claiming Clarets star killed in car crash|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/10765591.trolls-slammed-fake-tweets-claiming-clarets-star-killed-car-crash/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=26 October 2013|access-date=9 April 2021}} Four months later, Wallace spoke in the interview about the tweet for the first time and was bemusement about, as well as, the acknowledgment use of social media.{{cite news|title='Sick' tweet was no pain for Burnley winger Wallace|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/sport/10996603.sick-tweet-no-pain-burnley-winger-wallace/|publisher=The Lancashire Telegraph|date=8 February 2014|access-date=9 April 2021}}
Career statistics
=Club=
| class="wikitable" style="text-align: center;"
|+ Appearances and goals by club, season and competition | ||||||||||||
| rowspan="2"|Club
!rowspan="2"|Season !colspan="3"|League !colspan="2"|National cup !colspan="2"|League cup !colspan="2"|Europe !colspan="2"|Other !colspan="2"|Total | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Division | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals |
| rowspan="6"|Celtic
|2002–03{{Soccerbase season|31664|2002|name=Ross Wallace|access-date=2 September 2015}} |0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | colspan="2"|— | 1 | 0 | ||
| 2003–04{{Soccerbase season|31664|2003|name=Ross Wallace|access-date=2 September 2015}}
|Scottish Premier League |8 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 3{{efn|Two appearances in UEFA Champions League, one in UEFA Cup}} | 0 | colspan="2"|— | 14 | 1 | ||
| 2004–05{{Soccerbase season|31664|2004|name=Ross Wallace|access-date=2 September 2015}}
|Scottish Premier League |16 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 3 | 3{{efn|name=CL|Appearance(s) in UEFA Champions League}} | 0 | colspan="2"|— | 21 | 3 | ||
| 2005–06{{Soccerbase season|31664|2005|name=Ross Wallace|access-date=2 September 2015}}
|Scottish Premier League |11 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1{{efn|name=CL}} | 0 | colspan="2"|— | 14 | 0 | ||
| 2006–07{{Soccerbase season|31664|2006|name=Ross Wallace|access-date=2 September 2015}}
|Scottish Premier League |2 | 0 | colspan="2"|— | colspan="2"|— | colspan="2"|— | colspan="2"|— | 2 | 0 | |||||
| colspan="2"|Total
!37 | 1 | 4 | 0 | 4 | 3 | 7 | 0 | colspan="2"|— | 52 | 4 | ||
| rowspan="3"|Sunderland
|32 | 6 | 1 | 0 | colspan="2"|— | colspan="2"|— | colspan="2"|— | 33 | 6 | ||||
| 2007–08{{Soccerbase season|31664|2007|name=Ross Wallace|access-date=2 September 2015}}
|21 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | colspan="2"|— | colspan="2"|— | 22 | 2 | |||
| colspan="2"|Total
!53 | 8 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | colspan="2"|— | colspan="2"|— | 55 | 8 | |||
| rowspan="3"|Preston North End
|2008–09{{Soccerbase season|31664|2008|name=Ross Wallace|access-date=2 September 2015}} |Championship |39 | 5 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 0 | colspan="2"|— | 2{{efn|name=FLP|Appearances in Championship play-offs}} | 0 | 44 | 5 | ||
| 2009–10{{Soccerbase season|31664|2009|name=Ross Wallace|access-date=2 September 2015}}
|Championship |41 | 7 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 0 | colspan="2"|— | colspan="2"|— | 45 | 7 | |||
| colspan="2"|Total
!80 | 12 | 3 | 0 | 4 | 0 | colspan="2"|— | 2 | 0 | 89 | 12 | ||
| rowspan="6"|Burnley
|2010–11{{Soccerbase season|31664|2010|name=Ross Wallace|access-date=2 September 2015}} |Championship |40 | 3 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 0 | colspan="2"|— | colspan="2"|— | 43 | 3 | |||
| 2011–12{{Soccerbase season|31664|2011|name=Ross Wallace|access-date=2 September 2015}}
|Championship |44 | 5 | 1 | 0 | 4 | 1 | colspan="2"|— | colspan="2"|— | 49 | 6 | |||
| 2012–13{{Soccerbase season|31664|2012|name=Ross Wallace|access-date=2 September 2015}}
|Championship |36 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 3 | 0 | colspan="2"|— | colspan="2"|— | 40 | 3 | |||
| 2013–14{{Soccerbase season|31664|2013|name=Ross Wallace|access-date=2 September 2015}}
|Championship |14 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | colspan="2"|— | colspan="2"|— | 15 | 0 | |||
| 2014–15{{Soccerbase season|31664|2014|name=Ross Wallace|access-date=2 September 2015}}
|Premier League |15 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 | colspan="2"|— | colspan="2"|— | 18 | 2 | |||
| colspan="2"|Total
!149 | 12 | 6 | 1 | 10 | 1 | colspan="2"|— | colspan="2"|— | 165 | 14 | |||
| rowspan="4"|Sheffield Wednesday | 2015–16{{Soccerbase season|31664|2015|name=Ross Wallace|access-date=14 January 2017}}
|Championship | 40 | 3 | 2 | 0 | 3 | 1 | colspan="2"|— | 3{{efn|name=FLP}} | 2 | 48 | 6 |
| |2016–17{{cite web
| title = Games played by Ross Wallace in 2016/2017 | url = https://www.whoscored.com/Teams/25 | work = Whoscored | publisher = – | access-date = 14 January 2017}} |Championship | 41 | 5 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | colspan="2"|— | 2{{efn|name=FLP}} | 0 | 45 | 5 | |
| |2017–18{{Soccerbase season|31664|2017|name=Ross Wallace|access-date=14 January 2017}}
|Championship | 27 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 0 | colspan="2"|— | colspan="2"|— | 31 | 2 | ||
| colspan="2"|Total
!108 | 10 | 5 | 0 | 6 | 1 | colspan="2"|— | 5 | 2 | 124 | 13 | ||
| rowspan="3"|Fleetwood Town | 2018–19{{Soccerbase season|31664|2018|name=Ross Wallace|access-date=28 September 2018}}
|League One | 36 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | colspan="2"|— | colspan="2"|— | 38 | 1 | |
| |2019–20{{Soccerbase season|31664|2019|name=Ross Wallace|access-date=22 March 2020}}
|League One | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | colspan="2"|— | colspan="2"|— | 4 | 0 | ||
| colspan="2"|Total
!39 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 0 | colspan="2"|— | colspan="2"|— | 42 | 1 | |||
| St Mirren | 2019–20 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | colspan="2"|— | colspan="2"|— | 3 | 0 | |
| colspan="3"|Career total
!469 | 44 | 21 | 1 | 26 | 5 | 7 | 0 | 7 | 2 | 530 | 52 |
{{reflist|group=lower-alpha}}
=International=
| class="wikitable" style="text-align: center;"
|+ Appearances and goals by national team and year{{NFT player|33798|name=Wallace, Ross|access-date=19 June 2014}} | |||
| National team | Year | Apps | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scotland
|2009 | 1 | 0 | |
| colspan="2"|Total | 1 | 0 |
Honours
Celtic
| title = R. Wallace
| url = https://int.soccerway.com/players/ross-wallace/790/
| publisher = Soccerway
| access-date = 26 April 2015}}
Sunderland
Burnley
- Football League Championship runner-up: 2013–14
References
{{reflist}}
External links
- {{Soccerbase}}
- [http://www.11v11.com/players/ross-wallace-20021/ Scotland stats] at 11v11
- [http://www.fitbastats.com/scotlandu21/player.php?playerid=400Scotland U21 stats] at Fitbastats
{{DEFAULTSORT:Wallace, Ross}}
Category:Footballers from Dundee
Category:Scottish men's footballers
Category:Scotland men's youth international footballers
Category:Scotland men's under-21 international footballers
Category:Scotland men's B international footballers
Category:Scotland men's international footballers
Category:Men's association football defenders
Category:Men's association football wingers
Category:Sunderland A.F.C. players
Category:Preston North End F.C. players
Category:Sheffield Wednesday F.C. players
Category:Fleetwood Town F.C. players
Category:Scottish Premier League players
Category:English Football League players
Category:Premier League players
Category:St Mirren F.C. players
Category:Burnley F.C. non-playing staff