How mistaken I was with the “extraordinary” Sheffield Wednesday appointment

How mistaken I was regarding the ‘exceptional’ appointment at Sheffield Wednesday

Alan Biggs admits his misjudgment about the type of manager Sheffield Wednesday needed to navigate their way out of relegation.

Let’s be honest, regardless of the outcome – those of us who believed that rescuing Sheffield Wednesday was beyond the realm of a managerial novice were completely mistaken.

There were quite a few of us who held this belief. You’re probably aware of the kind of manager I would have preferred, as would a significant portion of the fan base. However, I believe our skepticism toward rookie appointments would have been justified in most cases. That’s why Danny Rohl has not only defied expectations but has also shown exceptional capabilities.

The young German’s performance can be evaluated under the reasonable assumption that no experienced manager – including the one we all know – could have done a better job in such dire circumstances. So, I’m willing to admit my misjudgment on that front, while also advocating for Wednesday to adopt a more long-term perspective. That seemed to be the only sensible approach.

Since then, Rohl has managed to win 12 out of 31 league games (as of writing, ahead of Norwich midweek), with a victory ratio approaching 40%. This is quite remarkable for a club facing such desperate circumstances. I would argue that Rohl is a serious contender for Manager of the Season if the great escape is achieved.

Ironically, Rohl has brought to the table two qualities that are typically associated with another well-known figure, Mr. Warnock: clarity and force of personality, in short, man-management. Again, it’s quite extraordinary to find these traits in the youngest boss in English professional football.

Additionally, Rohl has introduced advanced coaching techniques acquired from his time with Southampton, Bayern Munich, and the German national team. However, you can also see some of the personal energy and magnetism reminiscent of Jurgen Klopp in the way he passionately drives his team forward. It’s an approach that wears its heart on its sleeve, leaving no room for doubt, whether for players or supporters, about his feelings.

You could also include the chairman in that assessment. Rohl’s sometimes pointed public statements strongly suggest that he understands the club, its infrastructure, and the way it has been managed. Can he effect change? Not directly. However, amidst the speculation about whether he will stay or leave, it’s evident that Rohl is not one to toe a political line. He feels empowered enough to make observations, albeit indirectly, that his predecessors wouldn’t dare touch. And he’s justified in feeling that he holds some influence. It’s not about personal matters; it’s about professionalism.

The gamble taken by both him and Wednesday has come close enough to fruition to be considered an unqualified success. Rohl is now in an excellent position to further his career, whether at Hillsborough or elsewhere. The big question remains – can the club keep up?