Sheffield Wednesday FC Squad 2024/25
Sheffield Wednesday FC, one of England’s most historic football clubs, enters the 2024/25 season with a squad brimming with talent, ambition, and a mix of experienced heads and youthful exuberance. After a series of strategic signings and the retention of key players, the Owls are poised to make a significant impact in their league campaign. This post delves into the detailed breakdown of the squad, examining each player’s background, achievements, and contributions to the team. From goalkeepers to forwards, every position is covered to provide a comprehensive overview of the players who will don the famous blue and white stripes this season.
Goalkeepers
- Cameron Dawson
- Nationality: English
- Former Clubs: Exeter City (loan), Chesterfield (loan)
- Transfer Fee: Academy Graduate
Cameron Dawson, a product of Sheffield Wednesday’s youth academy, has established himself as a reliable presence between the sticks. Known for his sharp reflexes and commanding presence in the box, Dawson has been a consistent performer for the Owls. His loan spells at Exeter City and Chesterfield earlier in his career helped him gain valuable first-team experience. Standing at 6’3”, he is a formidable figure during set-pieces and has developed into a vocal leader on the pitch. Dawson’s distribution has improved significantly, making him a modern goalkeeper capable of initiating attacks from the back.
- Pierluigi Gollini
- Nationality: Italian
- Former Clubs: Atalanta, Tottenham Hotspur, Napoli, Aston Villa
- Transfer Fee: £2.5 million
Pierluigi Gollini joined Sheffield Wednesday in the summer of 2024, bringing a wealth of experience from top European leagues. The Italian shot-stopper, who previously played for Atalanta and Tottenham, is known for his agility and ability to pull off spectacular saves. Gollini’s time in Serie A and the Premier League has honed his skills, making him a valuable addition to the squad. His calm demeanor under pressure and excellent shot-stopping ability provide the Owls with a strong last line of defense. At 29, Gollini is in his prime and brings a winning mentality to the team.
- Joe Wildsmith
- Nationality: English
- Former Clubs: Derby County (loan), Alfreton Town (loan)
- Transfer Fee: Academy Graduate
Joe Wildsmith, another academy graduate, has been a loyal servant to Sheffield Wednesday. Although primarily serving as a backup, Wildsmith’s dedication and professionalism have earned him the respect of teammates and fans alike. His loan spells at Derby County and Alfreton Town provided him with crucial first-team experience. Wildsmith is known for his excellent positioning and ability to read the game, making him a dependable option when called upon. His commitment to the club’s ethos and willingness to support the team in any capacity make him a valuable member of the squad.
Defenders
- Dominic Iorfa
- Nationality: English
- Former Clubs: Wolverhampton Wanderers, Ipswich Town (loan)
- Transfer Fee: £250,000
Dominic Iorfa, a versatile defender capable of playing both center-back and right-back, has been a mainstay in Sheffield Wednesday’s defense since his arrival from Wolves. Known for his blistering pace and physicality, Iorfa is a nightmare for opposing attackers. His ability to recover quickly and make crucial tackles has saved the Owls on numerous occasions. Iorfa’s aerial prowess also makes him a threat during set-pieces. At 28, he is entering the peak years of his career and remains a key figure in the squad.
- Aden Flint
- Nationality: English
- Former Clubs: Bristol City, Cardiff City, Stoke City
- Transfer Fee: Free Transfer
Aden Flint, a towering center-back standing at 6’6”, joined Sheffield Wednesday on a free transfer in 2023. His experience in the Championship and League One makes him a valuable asset in the heart of defense. Flint’s physicality and ability to dominate aerial duels are his standout attributes. He is also a threat in the opposition box, having scored numerous goals from set-pieces throughout his career. Flint’s leadership qualities and experience provide stability to the backline, making him an integral part of the squad.
- Marvin Johnson
- Nationality: English
- Former Clubs: Middlesbrough, Oxford United
- Transfer Fee: £500,000
Marvin Johnson, a left-back with an eye for goal, has been a consistent performer for Sheffield Wednesday since his arrival from Middlesbrough. Known for his pace and crossing ability, Johnson is a constant threat down the left flank. His defensive work rate has improved significantly, making him a well-rounded full-back. Johnson’s ability to deliver pinpoint crosses and contribute to the attack has made him a fan favorite. At 33, he brings experience and composure to the team.
- Liam Palmer
- Nationality: Scottish
- Former Clubs: Tranmere Rovers (loan)
- Transfer Fee: Academy Graduate
Liam Palmer, a versatile defender who can play both right-back and midfield, is a product of Sheffield Wednesday’s youth academy. His loyalty and commitment to the club have made him a respected figure among fans. Palmer’s ability to read the game and make intelligent runs forward adds an extra dimension to the team’s play. His experience and versatility make him a valuable squad player, capable of filling in multiple positions when needed.
- Ben Heneghan
- Nationality: English
- Former Clubs: AFC Wimbledon, Blackpool
- Transfer Fee: Free Transfer
Ben Heneghan, a no-nonsense center-back, joined Sheffield Wednesday on a free transfer in 2022. Known for his physicality and ability to win duels, Heneghan is a reliable presence in defense. His leadership qualities and organizational skills have been instrumental in shoring up the backline. Heneghan’s commitment and work ethic make him a valuable member of the squad, providing depth and competition in the defensive department.
Midfielders
- Barry Bannan
- Nationality: Scottish
- Former Clubs: Aston Villa, Crystal Palace
- Transfer Fee: £1 million
Barry Bannan, the heartbeat of Sheffield Wednesday’s midfield, continues to be a pivotal figure for the team. The Scottish playmaker is known for his vision, passing range, and ability to dictate the tempo of the game. Bannan’s leadership on and off the pitch has earned him the captain’s armband. His set-piece delivery and ability to score from distance make him a constant threat. At 34, Bannan’s experience and creativity remain invaluable to the Owls.
- George Byers
- Nationality: English
- Former Clubs: Swansea City, Portsmouth (loan)
- Transfer Fee: Free Transfer
George Byers, a dynamic midfielder, joined Sheffield Wednesday on a free transfer in 2021. Known for his energy and box-to-box capabilities, Byers is a key component of the team’s midfield. His ability to break up play and contribute to the attack makes him a well-rounded player. Byers’ work rate and determination have endeared him to the fans, and he continues to be a vital cog in the squad.
- Will Vaulks
- Nationality: Welsh
- Former Clubs: Rotherham United, Cardiff City
- Transfer Fee: Free Transfer
Will Vaulks, a tenacious midfielder, joined Sheffield Wednesday in 2022. Known for his tackling and ability to shield the defense, Vaulks is a reliable presence in the middle of the park. His passing range and ability to score from distance add an extra dimension to his game. Vaulks’ experience and leadership qualities make him a valuable asset to the team.
- Fisayo Dele-Bashiru
- Nationality: English
- Former Clubs: Manchester City (youth)
- Transfer Fee: £500,000
Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, a young and energetic midfielder, joined Sheffield Wednesday from Manchester City’s youth setup. Known for his dribbling and ability to drive forward with the ball, Dele-Bashiru is a promising talent. His physicality and technical skills make him a handful for opposition defenders. At 23, he is still developing but has shown glimpses of his potential, making him an exciting prospect for the future.
- Josh Windass
- Nationality: English
- Former Clubs: Rangers, Wigan Athletic
- Transfer Fee: £500,000
Josh Windass, a versatile attacking midfielder, has been a key player for Sheffield Wednesday since his arrival from Wigan. Known for his creativity and goal-scoring ability, Windass is a constant threat in the final third. His ability to play in multiple positions adds flexibility to the team’s attack. Windass’ work rate and determination make him a fan favorite, and he continues to be a crucial part of the squad.
Forwards
- Michael Smith
- Nationality: English
- Former Clubs: Rotherham United, Bury
- Transfer Fee: £1 million
Michael Smith, a powerful striker, joined Sheffield Wednesday in 2022. Known for his aerial ability and hold-up play, Smith is a focal point in the attack. His physicality and ability to bring others into play make him a valuable asset. Smith’s goal-scoring record in the lower leagues speaks for itself, and he continues to be a reliable option up front.
- Mallik Wilks
- Nationality: English
- Former Clubs: Hull City, Barnsley
- Transfer Fee: £500,000
Mallik Wilks, a pacey winger, joined Sheffield Wednesday in 2023. Known for his dribbling and ability to take on defenders, Wilks is a constant threat on the flanks. His goal-scoring ability and creativity make him a valuable addition to the attack. Wilks’ versatility allows him to play both as a winger and a forward, adding depth to the squad.
- Lee Gregory
- Nationality: English
- Former Clubs: Stoke City, Millwall
- Transfer Fee: Free Transfer
Lee Gregory, an experienced striker, joined Sheffield Wednesday on a free transfer in 2021. Known for his work rate and ability to score crucial goals, Gregory is a fan favorite. His movement and positioning make him a constant threat in the box. Gregory’s experience and leadership qualities make him a valuable member of the squad.
- Callum Paterson
- Nationality: Scottish
- Former Clubs: Cardiff City, Hearts
- Transfer Fee: £500,000
Callum Paterson, a versatile forward, joined Sheffield Wednesday in 2020. Known for his physicality and ability to play multiple positions, Paterson is a valuable squad player. His work rate and determination make him a constant threat, and he continues to be a reliable option in attack.
Conclusion
Sheffield Wednesday’s 2024/25 squad is a blend of experience, youth, and talent, with each player bringing unique qualities to the team. From the commanding presence of Cameron Dawson in goal to the creative brilliance of Barry Bannan in midfield and the goal-scoring prowess of Michael Smith up front, the Owls are well-equipped to compete at the highest level. The strategic signings and retention of key players reflect the club’s ambition to achieve success in the upcoming season. With a strong squad and a clear vision, Sheffield Wednesday is ready to make its mark and bring pride to its loyal fanbase.