This week marks three years since Leeds United stunned Sheffield Wednesday by winning the race to sign Connor Wickham on loan – but the deal was anything but a success.
Connor Wickham was a hero at Sheffield Wednesday
Leeds United take on Sheffield Wednesday this weekend, almost three years to the day they beat the Owls to coveted transfer deal.
Ultimately the deal turned out to be a disaster for all involved – but at the time it was struck there was elation on the part of Leeds fans and frustration for the Owls.
Wickham was touted as one of England’s most promising strikers in 2014, and garnered major attention after a dazzling spell on loan at Sheffield Wednesday.
In his second spell at the club he scored eight goals in 11 appearances, form which prompted Sunderland to recall him in late January.
Among his goals for Sheffield Wednesday was a strike in an infamous 6-0 victory over Leeds United – little did he know at the time he would end up there weeks later.
When Sunderland decided to loan him out in late February it had been expected to be a formality that he would return to Hillsborough, only for Leeds to register surprise interest.
Against the odds the Whites managed to lure Wickham to Elland Road, much to the chagrin and bemusement of Wednesday fans at the time, with Leeds boss Brian McDermott telling the club website: “He was very keen to come and play at Leeds United.”
Jordan Obita of Reading goes for the ball with Connor Wickham of Leeds United
Leeds hoped it would be a game changing transfer, but it ended up a major disappointment.
Wickham played only five games for Brian McDermott’s side – and failed to score a single goal.
The 20-year-old was then recalled by Sunderland due to an injury crisis and new boss Gus Poyet looking for fresh impact, and he went onto score a handful of crucial goals to help the Black Cats stay in the Premier League.
Wickham is currently at Crystal Palace, but is out of action for the season with a serious knee injury.
Sheffield Wednesday fans can only wonder what could have been had he been allowed to continue his hot streak for them three years ago.
Crystal Palace’s Connor Wickham scores
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