Sheffield Wednesday may have dropped points lately, but one player has shown Danny Rohl exactly what he’s capable of.
After the derby defeat against Sheffield United prior to the international break, Sheffield Wednesday would have been hoping to bounce back with three points against struggling Cardiff City this weekend.
Things didn’t quite go to plan for Danny Rohl’s side and, despite controlling possession, the Owls could only manage a 1-1 draw against the Welsh outfit on Saturday afternoon.
While Sheffield Wednesday’s biggest issue continues to be a lack of composure in front of goal, one defender has helped Rohl’s team become more solid at the back.
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Max Lowe impresses vs Cardiff City
Playing once again on the left side of the three centre-backs, Max Lowe was in outstanding form against Cardiff, showing his composure on the ball, awareness and discipline in defensive areas, and excellent timing in the tackle.
Lowe may have only picked up a score of 6.7 out of 10 from SofaScore, but the defender put in two important tackles, made one interception, and won 60% of his duels across the 90 minutes.
| Statistic | Max Lowe vs Cardiff City |
|---|---|
| Interceptions | 1 |
| Tackles made | 2 |
| Dribbled past | 1 |
| Duels won | 60% |
| Touches | 85 |
| Passing success rate | 88% |
| Key passes | 1 |
| Possession lost | 8 |
On the ball, the 27-year-old was just as influential. Lowe had 85 touches in the game, registered an 88% passing success rate, and even managed to make one key pass.
Lowe’s display was one of dynamism and he exhibited an impeccable work rate, constantly tracking back and standing up the ball when his team were up against it, and offering an outlet for his teammates when in possession, too.
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Max Lowe has made defensive role his own
With injuries to both Michael Ihiekwe and Akin Famewo this season, Rohl has seen his defensive options limited, meaning Lowe has had to make the transition from left-back to centre-half, but he’s done so brilliantly.
Lowe was a real highlight in the win over Norwich earlier this month, played fairly well against his former club, Sheffield United, in the Steel City derby, and has stood out again this weekend.
It’s safe to say that Lowe is now a more than viable option for Rohl in that position, and his emergence there could save the Owls from needing to sign a new defender in January.
With Ihiekwe back in training now, Lowe will have a fight on his hands to keep that spot, but he’s put himself in a very strong position and Rohl has to be happy with his defender’s performances so far.