Henrik Pedersen defended Sheffield Wednesday's spirit after a late comeback earned a 2-2 draw at Huddersfield Town, a result that has increased pressure on the head coach. The Owls, who are currently seventh in the League One standings with 15 points from eight games, needed a 98th-minute Jamal Lowe penalty to rescue a point in the Yorkshire derby last Saturday.
Pedersen told reporters his team is in a "storming phase" and is developing a strong culture. He emphasised the squad's grit and resilience, noting they have not given up. "What is this formation?" was a question posed during a first half where Wednesday failed to register a shot on target until the 58th minute. Despite signing eighteen senior players in the summer and losing just once in eight league games, performances have frustrated supporters. Pedersen acknowledged the need for simpler tactics amid the growing concern.
Tactical questions mount
Half-time changes saw Callum Slattery move to the right wing and Harry Gray stationed wide on the left. Loanee Davis Keillor-Dunn, introduced at the break, contributed to the fightback but has been playing out wide despite being considered better in an inside role. Jamal Lowe, the team's top scorer with five goals this season according to the club's stats page, has also been asked to operate from the flank. The team's recent form shows three consecutive league draws, including two at home, following victories over Peterborough and Salford City.
Forward Ali Al-Hamadi has returned to training after an ankle injury and is in contention to face his former club AFC Wimbledon this Saturday. The fixtures list shows the match at Hillsborough is seen as a key opportunity to kickstart a winning run and solidify their promotion push. The draw leaves Wednesday four points behind leaders Plymouth Argyle as they prepare for the visit of 11th-placed Wimbledon.
First reported at bbc.com
