Video: We will get better after Millwall win, says Sheffield Wednesday boss Carlos Carvalhal

First half goals by Adam Reach and Jordan Rhodes helped the Owls record only their second win in eight Championship matches.

Victory extended their unbeaten run to eight matches against Millwall, who had Jake Cooper sent off in the dying minutes.

A relieved Carvalhal, who has received plenty of criticism in recent weeks, told The Star: “It was important after the last couple of weeks to win. We deserved to win.

“We know that we will play better and individual performances will grow up in the future.

“The collective performance will also grow up.

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“I’m very happy with the team’s performances in the last three matches and I believe we will become more confident.”

Tom Elliott cancelled out Reach’s third minute opener.

But Rhodes grabbed his first league goal since March to move the Owls up to 14th, just three points adrift of the play-off placings.

Carvalhal was delighted for striker Rhodes, who also hit the post late on.

“It is important for the strikers to score goals,” he said.

“When they score, they win more confidence.

“We are very happy Jordan scored and his goal was at a very important moment. His answer was good.”

He also praised the fans for their backing.

“They pushed the players and didn’t make anyone nervous,” said Carvalhal, who made five changes to his starting eleven.

“I want to thank them.

“We know it has not been easy. Some fans, in some clubs, would be nervous at this moment but they gave a lot of confidence to my team.”