Anthony Gardner has urged Owls fans to ‘rally together’ and move forward as one ahead of Tuesday night’s clash with leaders Leicester at Hillsborough.
The club captain spoke exclusively to swfc.co.uk following the departure of manager Dave Jones and emphasised that plenty of time remains for Wednesday to haul themselves clear from danger.
He said: “Results have not gone well this season and this is a results-based business. The chairman has made the decision and as players, we have to respect that decision and now the focus has to be moving forward under a new manager.
“These decisions are always hard, they are never easy, but the chairman has decided it is time for a change and has done so with enough time remaining and enough points to play for.”
Gardner – who is progressing well in his rehabilitation following a torn Achilles sustained at Middlesbrough in late August – explained that as a senior professional and captain, the onus is on him to help rally the troops:
“As one of the senior pros, I will pass on my experience to the younger lads who have maybe not been in this situation. I have been through this experience as a younger player and I remember looking to the senior pros for guidance and those calm heads.
“I feel I have the additional responsibility as club captain so I will be doing the best I can to make the transition as smooth as possible from the players’ point of view.
“It’s now up to the players, all of us, to go out and perform to the best of our ability moving forward.
“All I would ask of our supporters is that they stay with the boys, stay with the club, rally together and move forward as one, starting tomorrow against Leicester.”
* The Owls have ticket availability in all home areas of Hillsborough for Tuesday night’s Sky Bet Championship clash with Leicester.
Tickets can be purchased in person at the Ticket Office, online by CLICKING HERE or by telephone on 0871 900 1867 (£2 booking fee per person).