Sheffield Wednesday kicked off December in style with a morale-boosting victory over Derby County, setting the tone for what they hope will be a fruitful festive period in the 2024/25 Championship season. As the Owls gear up for the hectic schedule ahead, their fans are filled with optimism, buoyed by recent performances that have showcased their resilience and growing potential under head coach Danny Rohl.
A Season of Evolving Fortunes
The season began with cautious optimism at Hillsborough, though the early stages were marked by inconsistency. However, in recent weeks, Sheffield Wednesday have found their rhythm. Across their last 10 Championship outings, Rohl’s team has secured five wins, two draws, and suffered three defeats—a solid return that reflects a team steadily growing in confidence and cohesion. Notably, the Owls have suffered just one loss in their last five matches, a hard-fought derby against their Steel City rivals, Sheffield United.
This resurgence has injected fresh hope into a campaign that once seemed destined for mediocrity. The players are beginning to respond to Rohl’s vision, and the squad’s collective effort has brought about a sense of unity and purpose that promises much for the festive fixtures to come.
Injury Concerns: A Double-Edged Sword
The Championship’s notoriously demanding schedule during the festive period places a premium on squad depth and player fitness. Like many teams, Sheffield Wednesday are navigating their share of injury woes, though the situation seems manageable. While a few players remain sidelined with significant issues, others are on the cusp of returning to action, providing Rohl with some much-needed reinforcements.
Long-Term Absentees
Key defender Akin Famewo has been a significant loss for the Owls. Sidelined since October with an injury expected to keep him out for months, his absence has left a gap in the backline. Similarly, summer signing Olaf Kobacki, who has been out of action since October 22, is eagerly awaited. The good news is that Kobacki is expected to make his return later this month, which could be a timely boost as the games pile up.
Short-Term Niggles
Other injury concerns appear less severe. Striker Ike Ugbo missed the Derby County victory and remains doubtful for the upcoming clash with Preston North End, but his condition is not causing significant concern. Defender Dominic Iorfa, who was substituted at halftime during the Derby game due to a minor issue, is also expected to avoid a lengthy absence.
Promising Signs
There’s positive news regarding Michael Ihiekwe, who was named on the bench last weekend as he nears full fitness. Meanwhile, Di’Shon Bernard, who recently broke his nose, continues to contribute despite his injury. Having served a suspension, he’s expected to don a protective face mask and return to action shortly. Young goalkeeper Pierce Charles has also been missing due to a minor hand injury but should be available soon.
Festive Fixtures: A Grueling Schedule
With the injury situation improving, Sheffield Wednesday are turning their attention to the challenges ahead. The Owls have a short break following their recent run of games but will soon dive back into action with a busy schedule that will test their mettle.
Upcoming Matches
The festive period begins with a home game against a struggling Preston North End side this weekend. The Owls will enter the game as favorites and hope to capitalize on Preston’s poor form. Following that, they face another home fixture against Blackburn Rovers, a team chasing a play-off spot. This match, scheduled for the following Tuesday, is expected to be a sterner test. The week concludes with an away trip to Oxford United, where Rohl’s men will face Des Buckingham’s side in what promises to be another challenging encounter.
Momentum Is Key
As Sheffield Wednesday prepare for this demanding stretch, their recent form offers a foundation to build upon. The squad’s adaptability and determination will be crucial as Rohl looks to rotate his players effectively to maintain performance levels. The festive season can often be a turning point in the Championship, and for the Owls, it represents an opportunity to solidify their upward trajectory and stake a claim for a strong finish to the campaign.
In summary, the festive period holds both promise and peril for Sheffield Wednesday. If they can manage their injury concerns, maintain their form, and seize opportunities in the coming fixtures, they may find themselves well-positioned to achieve their season’s ambitions. For now, Hillsborough remains a beacon of hope, with fans eagerly anticipating what lies ahead.
