“We’ll move forward” – Owls star says Sheffield Wednesday will cope without Steven Fletcher and Fernando Forestieri

Joe Wildsmith has seen plenty of players come and go at Hillsborough since signing his professional contract in 2013, and he’s confident they’ll get by once the latest round of exits are confirmed.
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It was announced on Wednesday evening that the likes of Steven Fletcher, Morgan Fox and Fernando Forestieri had all rejected new contracts at Hillsborough as the 2019/20 season comes to an end, while the exits of Sam Hutchinson and Sam Winnall were also confirmed.

Now, with Wildsmith hoping to keep his place against Bristol City on Sunday after making his 50th Owls appearance in the 1-1 draw with Nottingham Forest, he says that he’s confident the team can get by – even if losing those players would be a loss.

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Speaking to the media today, the 24-year-old said, “They’re big players and they’ve done well for the club in the years they’ve been here, but there’s enough characters in this dressing room to carry us through the rest of the season.

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“As much as it’s been great to have them here and their help along the way, if it is the case that they’re moving on then that’s their decision and as a club we’ll move forward as well.

“We’ve got enough big characters in there to see us though. Obviously it’s a loss that they are leaving, but we’ve still got a season to focus on and finish off, so we’re all focused on that.”

He did, however, admit that it would be nice to keep them around, saying, "I do hope they re-sign because they benefit this club a lot. They have been great lads and know the club. It would be great to see but we will have to wait and see what happens."

Joe Wildsmith got his 50th Sheffield Wednesday appearance on Saturday. (via @SWFC | Steve Ellis)Joe Wildsmith got his 50th Sheffield Wednesday appearance on Saturday. (via @SWFC | Steve Ellis)
Joe Wildsmith got his 50th Sheffield Wednesday appearance on Saturday. (via @SWFC | Steve Ellis)
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Wildsmith is expected to start once again for Garry Monk’s side on Sunday when they take on a Bristol side gunning for a spot in the Play-Offs, with Cameron Dawson set to sit on the bench.

More Wednesday news:

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