Sheffield Wednesday boss Danny Rohl provided an update on Gabriel Otegbayo following the team’s 2-1 victory over Middlesbrough on Monday. Otegbayo had to be substituted during the match due to cramp, with Liam Palmer taking his place. Despite the early scare, the Owls triumphed at home, with goals from Josh Windass and Anthony Musaba securing the win. This victory propelled Sheffield Wednesday to 13th place in the league, with two games left to play.
In his latest comments, Rohl reassured fans about Otegbayo’s condition, telling The Star, “It’s just a cramp.” He also praised the young defender’s development over the season, highlighting his growth since pre-season. “Gab is a big, big winner of the season,” Rohl continued, noting that although Otegbayo had faced some challenges, he had made significant progress. Rohl also explained the tactical adjustments he made to help Otegbayo, emphasizing that positioning him in a ‘plus one’ role allowed him to better read the game. The manager also mentioned the improvement of both Otegbayo and Pierce Charles, noting that both academy products could potentially play in the Championship next season.
In terms of injury, Sheffield Wednesday will be relieved that Otegbayo’s issue was only cramp, and the club will be eager to give him more game time in their upcoming fixtures against Portsmouth and Watford. Otegbayo has featured in 14 matches across all competitions this season, with 10 of those appearances coming in the league. He has also contributed one goal from the back. The defender joined Sheffield Wednesday in March of last year, and the club handed him his first professional contract.
Otegbayo, who is seen as a future prospect for the team, has the potential to establish himself as a regular in the first team over the coming years. His journey to Sheffield Wednesday began in Ireland, where he played for Ringmahon and Cobh Ramblers before moving to England in 2022. After spending a year with Burnley, he had trials with Stoke City and Hull City before eventually being signed by the Owls.
Sheffield Wednesday had been winless in six matches before their triumph over Middlesbrough, but they showed resilience in turning the game around after Finn Azaz put Boro ahead early. The team is now focused on their next match, which will take place at Hillsborough this weekend against Portsmouth, who are already safe from relegation.
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