Sheffield Wednesday F.C. manager Henrik Pedersen remains resolute in his belief that his squad is making tangible progress, despite a painful 2-1 home defeat to Millwall F.C.. Speaking to BBC Radio Sheffield, the Danish coach insisted his players are moving in the right direction, even as another loss was confirmed at Hillsborough.
Owls show fight against promotion hopefuls
Millwall dictated much of Saturday afternoon’s contest, but Wednesday stunned the visitors on the hour mark when Jamal Lowe reacted quickest to a loose ball to fire the hosts ahead.
The advantage proved short-lived, however. A late own goal from Cole McGhie, followed swiftly by a decisive strike from Macaulay Langstaff, turned the game on its head and condemned the Owls to their 23rd league defeat of the campaign.
Despite the setback, Pedersen was adamant that the performance merited praise.
“I think it was a fantastic game for the boys. We played against a strong Millwall team, a top team in the Championship, and we knew they are maybe the most physical team in the league for set-pieces, long balls, second balls and duels. How we managed this game today, big respect to our guys. For the defensive stuff, we were really well organised, and we managed all the long balls, and we also managed to win a lot of the second balls. Today, compared to some of the other games, we also had some power when we won the ball to play forward, to run forward, to get high up on the pitch and to create something, so it’s a big step in the right direction.”
Tactical resilience in a punishing season
At 48, Pedersen continues to lean on the principles of Danish football, emphasising structure, organisation and bravery in duels. He commended his side for standing up to what he considers the most physically imposing team in the Championship, particularly in dealing with aerial deliveries and second balls.
While the result adds yet another defeat to a grim campaign, the display hinted at a renewed resilience that had been missing during the bleak winter stretch.
As of 15 February 2026, Sheffield Wednesday remain rooted to the foot of the Championship table, with just one league win all season.
Much of their plight stems from a severe 18-point deduction imposed for financial mismanagement and administration — a sanction that effectively derailed their survival bid before it truly began.
Attention now turns to the looming Steel City Derby against Sheffield United F.C.. With relegation fears all but confirmed, pride may be the primary motivator on the pitch.
Off it, supporters are increasingly focused on the proposed takeover led by businessman James Bord and his consortium, hoping it signals the start of a long-awaited rebuild.
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