Carlton Palmer has hailed Sheffield Wednesday for one piece of ‘fantastic’ business that they have done this summer.
Sheffield Wednesday were expected to undergo a major overhaul after managing to narrowly cling onto their Championship status.
Their chances of attracting quality players dramatically increased when Danny Rohl signed a new contract, and they have since gone onto make seven signings.
That includes the return of James Beadle, while highly sought after forward Jamal Lowe also arrives on a free transfer.
It hasn’t just been new faces that have given the Owls a boost either, with a number of players putting pen to paper on contract extensions.
Liam Palmer and Barry Bannan were very quick to sign a new deal, while Josh Windass’ situation dragged on a bit further.
The midfielder initially looked set to reject a contract after talks hit a snag, but there was a gradual turnaround and he went onto commit his future to the club last week.
Josh Windass can make a real difference next season
Speaking to Football League World, he said: “It’s fantastic news for Sheffield Wednesday.
“You can understand why he waited to see what league the club were going to be in, and obviously Josh Windass wouldn’t want to play in League One again.
“He’s a game-changer. He’s had some bad luck with injuries where he missed important parts of the season, and that may have been a worry during contract talks, but they’ve agreed a deal.
“It’s fantastic signing for the football club, he’s a very determined young man, and he’s got loads of quality. So they’ll be hoping to kick-on next season, and having someone like Josh available will help.
“There were plenty of clubs who wanted to take Josh. I think he was close to signing for West Brom, but I know Josh well, and I know he likes living in Sheffield and playing for Sheffield Wednesday, and I know the supporters love him.
“So, it’s brilliant news and things are looking very, very bright ahead of the start of the season.”
The mentality at Sheffield Wednesday would have changed if he had left
There was huge concern when it was reported that Windass could leave the club, but it will give the players and the fans a huge mental boost that he decided to extend his stay.
The 30-year-old made a real difference to Wednesday when he returned from injury and the club may well have been relegated if it wasn’t for him.
While he is on hefty wages, his form for the club has been undeniably effective and his relationship with the fans and the manager can make a really positive impact next term.