The upcoming local derby between Sheffield Wednesday and Sheffield United is generating a lot of excitement, with the potential for a significant turnout.
Sheffield Wednesday’s under-21 team, which has been performing exceptionally well this season, will face a tough challenge on Friday night when they host their rivals, Sheffield United, at Hillsborough in a Professional Development League match. This clash promises to showcase the best of young talent in age group football, featuring the top two teams in the league.
The young Owls have only suffered one defeat in their first seven games and are coming off a fantastic 3-0 victory against Birmingham City in their last outing.
Manager Neil Thompson, who usually oversees the under-21s, has been handling first-team responsibilities due to the departure of head coach Xisco Munoz. Although he recently managed a goalless draw against Huddersfield, there’s a possibility he will return to the S6 dugout for this exciting matchup.
The 7pm kick-off, combined with the international break, is likely to result in a higher attendance at Hillsborough, especially since ticket prices have been affordable in recent years.
Discussing the coaching situation, Thompson mentioned that despite the challenges, they have capable staff like Andy Sharp and Jordan Broadbent from the lower levels of the academy who can step in as needed.
Thompson also highlighted the progress of academy players Bailey Cadamarteri and Joey Phuthi, who earned a place on the first team bench in the previous game against Huddersfield.
He explained that their impressive performances for the under-21s, with Cadamarteri scoring nine goals and Phuthi making a strong comeback, justified their inclusion.
However, he emphasized that, at 18 years old, they are still young and the leap from youth to senior football involves a significant increase in intensity and challenge.
As the game approaches, Sheffield Wednesday is expected to release ticket details for Friday’s match.
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