Sheffield Wednesday got their first January signing over the line yesterday, signing James Beadle on loan from Brighton.
The 19-year-old spent the first half of the season on loan with League One promotion-chasers Oxford United where he featured 25 times in the league, conceding 29 goals and keeping seven clean sheets.
He looks set to be the first of many to arrive at Hillsborough this month as Danny Rohl looks to put his own print on the side, whilst also giving the team all they need in their quest for survival.
With Beadle relatively inexperienced, having never played in the Championship before, Sheffield Wednesday News spoke to Oxford Mail journalist Liam Rice, asking a variety of questions about Beadle and what Owls fans can expect from their new shot-stopper…
Is Beadle ready to step up to the Championship with Sheffield Wednesday?
“Beadle has shown through his performances that he’s among the best goalkeepers in League One, so from the development side of things, a move to the Championship arguably makes sense for both him and his parent club. It’s a big step up, but one I’m sure he’ll relish and make without any worries.
“Losing him is a huge blow for United. Without doubt he’s been one of the club’s standout performers this season, not just for his displays, but also how consistent he is. The club are now looking to bring in a replacement swiftly, but they’ll have big gloves to fill!”
Is Beadle a good shot-stopper as well as a good ball-playing goalkeeper?
“Beadle’s ability with the ball at his feet is well publicised, but that’s not his only asset. I’ve been regularly impressed by his shot-stopping, particularly with his feet, and when making himself big to thwart onrushing attackers.”
Are there any Premier League goalkeepers that compare to Beadle?
“It’s hard to compare him to a current Premier League goalkeeper. In terms of size and stature, Nick Pope springs to mind, and while he’s very good with his passing range, he’s certainly got a way to go compared to the very elite in the likes of Alisson or Ederson. He’s a brilliant goalkeeper, especially for one so young, and he will no doubt ply his trade in the top flight sooner rather than later.”
Given Rice’s review of Beadle, Sheffield Wednesday certainly seem to have signed a promising young goalkeeper who can compliment the Owls’ passing style of play.
Cameron Dawson now has a tough task on his hands in keeping Beadle out of the team, though expect Rohl to be paying closer attention to the situation, and expect Rohl to act swiftly should he think Beadle is a better option for the XI.
It’ll certainly be interesting to see if Dawson keeps his spot for the upcoming league game vs Southampton this weekend; if he does then it’ll be interesting to see when, or even if Beadle gets a chance in the Championship.
But Brighton’s willingness to recall him and send him to South Yorkshire suggests that Sheffield Wednesday are ready to play Beadle.