'Huge' - Jaden Heskey makes Sheffield Wednesday fans admission after sealing deadline day return
Jaden Heskey rejoined Sheffield Wednesday earlier this week, arriving on loan from Manchester City.
Deadline day recruit Jaden Heskey has admitted Sheffield Wednesday left a “huge” impression on him following his loan spell at Hillsborough during the second half of last season, referencing the supporters as an important reason behind his return.
Heskey returned to South Yorkshire on Tuesday, joining the Owls on loan from Manchester City for the duration of the 2026/27 campaign after making 20 appearances during his previous stint in S6.
The City youngster, 20, made his second debut for the Owls just hours after his return to the club was confirmed, coming off the bench to help Henrik Pedersen’s side beat Wycombe Wanderers 2-1 at Adams Park. He was introduced with 25 minutes remaining, replacing fellow loanee Mason Burstow.
Wednesday lacked depth in midfield heading into the latter stages of the window, meaning Heskey’s return to Hillsborough was a much-needed boost. He will now compete with the likes of Barry Bannan and Billy Mitchell for a starting berth.
Having established himself as a regular starter in S6 during the second half of last season, Heskey enjoyed his time at the club despite Wednesday’s collective struggles, revealing that played a key factor in him deciding to return.
“It was huge,” Heskey admitted, speaking to the Owls’ in-house media. “Every home game was incredible, especially the last day.
“And then every away game as well, the fans were louder than the home fans, and I felt the appreciation from the fans and stuff. Obviously, [my] teammates were top and all the coaching staff, so it left a big impression.”
Last season’s stint at Hillsborough marked Heskey’s first loan spell of his career, meaning it was a big moment in his development both personally and professionally. Having had that experience, he is now hoping to go up through the gears this term.
The midfielder continued: “I think I grew up a lot. It was the first time leaving home, living away. Obviously, it’s not too far from Manchester, but I grew up a lot in that respect.
“On the pitch, I think I developed quite a bit. As a midfielder, I probably played a bit deeper than I’d been used to, but I think I learnt that role and played a bit higher as well.
“I think I learnt a lot of different roles and became a bit more direct, but this season I want to build [on that] even more.”