Why Sheffield Wednesday hero believes there will be 'more pressure' on Henrik Pedersen next season
The Owls are second favourites for the League One title
Henrik Pedersen will face a different type of pressure next season, says one Owls favourite.
Despite having to build a new squad from scratch this summer, Sheffield Wednesday have been installed as second favourites for the League One title, behind Leicester City, by the bookies. Although a large chunk of the fanbase appreciates the huge task of rebuilding the football club, others expect Wednesday to at least challenge for a play-off place.
Unlike last season when everyone knew the difficult position they were in following administration and having a threadbare squad full of youngsters, loans and players on short-term contracts, there will be a demand on Pedersen to deliver positive results and an exciting style of play.
Chris Waddle said: “If they want to get out of the division next season, the fan base is there, ready to go. There will be more pressure on Henrik Pedersen next year because it was like a free hit this season. It’s going to be different. After the first four, five, six games he’s going to be judged and if they’re not in the top six then people will start asking questions.”
The transfer window is closed until June 15 but that does not mean that deals can’t be agreed in the meantime. As The Star has reported, Wednesday are believed to have shown an interest in midfielders Andy Rinomhota and Odin Bailey. Players are due back in training next month and pre-season plans will be announced in the coming weeks.
“It's going to need a different mentality next season,” Waddle added. “Wednesday have got to come out of the blocks very quickly. But they need a good 15 to 20 players this summer.”