Garry Monk backs goalkeeper Cameron Dawson as Sheffield Wednesday look ahead to Birmingham clash

The 24-year-old signed a new four-year contract with the club last month having emerged as Monk’s preferred stopper.

With long-time number one Keiren Westwood, 35, out of the picture Dawson has held the number one shirt since defeat at West Brom in November. He has come into criticism in recent weeks, however, after high-profile mistakes in matches at QPR and Barnsley.

And after missing the shot for George Puscas’ goal in their 3-0 home defeat to Reading on Saturday, some supporters have called for an unlikely Westwood return, or for an opportunity for third-choice Joe Wildsmith.

Asked about Dawson’s form, Monk told The Star: “I am not here to criticise [individual players], it’s bigger than just a mistake. Yes, we have been making mistakes, it’s not just Cameron, there’s been a lot of mistakes in this period from other players.

“It’s more than just mistakes, it’s about the whole thing, it needs to be at a much higher level than what it is right now.

“The only thing that changes the atmosphere is results. When it comes to the modern-day changing room, confidence can be lost a lot quicker than it used to do. But also confidence can come back quick. What they need is that result.”

Monk made clear his determination to get it right at Hillsborough but admitted he was under pressure amid a dismal run of form has seen one win in 10 league matches.

Asked whether this was the most difficult period of his career, he said: “It’s right up there. But that’s what you have to get on with. I am not going to sulk or feel sorry for myself.

“I want to give me best for this club, for the team, and my aim is to get to the point where I can physically affect that change.

“But I need to get results, and the team needs to get results in the meantime, and as quickly as possible.”