Sheffield Wednesday captain Barry Bannan has praised the squad's developing culture following a perfect nine-point week in League One. The Owls' strong start to the season continues as they prepare to host Wigan Athletic this weekend, sitting top of the table after five games.
What did Barry Bannan say about the team's spirit?
Speaking to the club's official website, Bannan highlighted the collective effort that secured three wins in a week, including a hard-fought 2-1 victory at Peterborough United. He said the manager prioritises character, stating, "before being a good player, he's interested in the human and being the right human for the changing room." Bannan believes this focus is paying dividends, with players willing to "throw their bodies on the line" for results.
The skipper is confident the group will only improve. "We feel strong in the changing room in terms of players with a lot of ability," Bannan added. He acknowledged the target is promotion at the first attempt, a significant ambition for a side that finished 24th in the Championship last season with just two wins. The club's full squad list shows the new group coming together.
Why did Sheffield Wednesday miss out on Jamie Vardy?
According to a report in the Yorkshire Post, Sheffield Wednesday's hopes of a sentimental reunion with Jamie Vardy have ended. The 39-year-old striker, who was released by the Owls' academy over two decades ago, has instead signed for Championship side Burnley. Wednesday owner David Storch had publicly expressed interest in bringing Vardy back to Hillsborough.
Storch told talkSPORT last month that Vardy was "somebody we would like to have in our club." However, convincing the former Leicester City legend to drop into League One proved a challenge. Burnley, who are bottom of the Championship, have offered him a deal until the end of the season. This follows a summer where Wednesday conceded 89 goals in their relegation campaign, finishing a massive 95 points behind champions Coventry.
What is next for Sheffield Wednesday?
After two away games, Danny Röhl's side returns to Hillsborough to face Wigan Athletic on Saturday. Tickets are on general sale for the fixture. The Owls have won four of their opening five matches, a stark contrast to last term's form. You can view the upcoming fixtures for more details.
The club's development sides are also in action this week. The Under-21s host Charlton Athletic at Hillsborough on Sunday, while the Under-18s face Coventry City on Saturday. The first team will look to maintain momentum against a Wigan side that has lost four of its first five games. The current standings reflect Wednesday's positive early position.
Barry Bannan also paid tribute to the nearly 4,000 travelling fans at Peterborough, calling their support "an amazing feeling." He stated that level of backing will be vital throughout a long season. The Owls' next challenge is a 3pm kick-off at Hillsborough this Saturday.
