NEWS
Josh Windass Calls for Fan Support to Revive Hillsborough Fortunes
Sheffield Wednesday midfielder Josh Windass has spoken openly about the team’s struggles at Hillsborough this season. With just one win in their last seven home games, the Owls have one of the worst home records in the Championship. Despite their efforts, the results at home have not matched their impressive away performances, creating frustration among fans and players alike. Windass believes that while the team must take responsibility for their home form, a little extra support from the fans could make a significant difference.
Speaking to BBC Radio Sheffield, Windass reflected on the atmosphere at Hillsborough and its impact on the players. He acknowledged that the team has been booed off at halftime during games, even when they have been performing well. This has created an uneasy environment that seems to affect the players’ confidence and composure during matches. Windass emphasized that he is not blaming the fans for the team’s poor home record but highlighted how a more supportive atmosphere could help the players deliver better results.
According to Windass, the history and stature of Sheffield Wednesday come with high expectations, which can be difficult to meet consistently. Fans, accustomed to the club’s historic success, expect the team to win, particularly against opponents perceived as weaker. However, Windass pointed out that there needs to be a sense of realism about the club’s current position and progress. While he understands the fans’ frustrations, he believes their vocal support could provide the players with the extra boost needed to turn their home form around.
Windass explained that the team’s struggles at home are puzzling, given their exceptional performances on the road. Away from Hillsborough, Sheffield Wednesday has won five of their last six games, including three consecutive victories. This impressive away form has propelled the team to ninth place in the Championship, putting them within reach of the playoff spots. However, their inability to replicate this success at home has been a stumbling block in their campaign.
The midfielder believes the pressure to perform at home is significantly higher, partly because of the expectations from the fans. He admitted that this pressure can weigh on the players, making it harder to play with the same freedom and confidence they show in away matches. Windass acknowledged that as professionals, the players must learn to manage these pressures, but he also stressed the importance of fans creating a positive and encouraging environment.
Windass also touched on the progress the team has made since last season, urging fans to appreciate the strides Sheffield Wednesday has taken. The club has faced its share of challenges in recent years, and while the current season may not yet reflect the team’s full potential, there are clear signs of improvement. He believes that fostering a strong connection between the players and supporters is crucial to sustaining this progress.
Ahead of their upcoming match against Stoke City, Sheffield Wednesday will be aiming to address their home issues and build momentum at Hillsborough. A win on Saturday could help rebuild confidence among the players and strengthen the bond with their fans. Windass and his teammates are determined to put in a strong performance and show the supporters that they are capable of delivering results at home.
For Windass, the focus remains on taking responsibility for the team’s performances and finding ways to improve. While he acknowledges the importance of fan support, he understands that the ultimate responsibility lies with the players to deliver results. He believes that with the right mindset and the backing of their supporters, Sheffield Wednesday can turn their home form around and push further up the Championship table.
The Owls’ situation highlights the challenges of balancing expectations and performance in professional football. At a club with a storied history like Sheffield Wednesday, the weight of past success can sometimes overshadow present realities. However, Windass is confident that by working together, the team and their fans can overcome these challenges and create a positive atmosphere that drives the club forward.
As the season progresses, Sheffield Wednesday will need to find consistency in their performances, both at home and away. The players and coaching staff will be working hard to identify the factors contributing to their struggles at Hillsborough and implement solutions to address them. Meanwhile, Windass hopes that the fans will continue to show their passion and support for the team, even during difficult periods.
Saturday’s match against Stoke City represents an opportunity for the Owls to turn a corner in their season. A strong performance and a positive result could set the tone for the rest of their home campaign, helping to restore confidence and belief among players and fans alike. For Windass and his teammates, the goal is clear: to deliver performances that make Hillsborough a fortress once again and give their loyal supporters plenty to cheer about.