'Another step' - Di'Shon Bernard shares message after making Sheffield Wednesday return
Di’Shon Bernard stored 45 minutes under his belt for Sheffield Wednesday’s Under-21s on Sunday afternoon.
Sheffield Wednesday defender Di’Shon Bernard has said he is “another step closer” to making his return to first-team action after featuring for the Under-21s on Sunday.
The centre-back, who joined Wednesday in July 2023, made his first appearance in 19 months, helping the Owls youngsters draw 2-2 with Charlton Athletic at Hillsborough. He had not played since suffering a serious knee injury in a 2-1 defeat to West Bromwich Albion at The Hawthorns in February last year.
Bernard completed the first 45 minutes as planned before being replaced at half-time by Kailen Hatfield. The Jamaican sported the captain’s armband during the first half before it was handed to Jarvis Thornton at the break.
Bernard looked calm and composed in possession, playing a collection of forward-thinking passes, as well as stepping into midfield on a few occasions. He also made a couple of vital defensive contributions to help Wednesday’s youngsters, who were playing under new boss Mark Burton for the first time, maintain their unbeaten record this season.
Posting on social media, Bernard said: “Good to be back out there today!! Another step closer.” He accompanied the post with the blue heart emoji.
Bernard’s 45-minute run-out marked his first appearance in 582 days. His comeback had been delayed several times, and he required surgery on more than one occasion, meaning his recovery was not without its setbacks.
Bernard’s first appearance in 19 months was watched by Owls boss Henrik Pedersen, who kept a close eye on proceedings from the directors’ box alongside several of Bernard’s teammates, such as Liam Palmer, Barry Bannan, Max Lowe, Ricardo Santos, Jordi Liongola and Billy Mitchell.