Sheffield Wednesday considering signing of Leeds United intern...

Sheffield On Monday night, Wednesday’s under-21 team, which had no fewer than four trialists, secured a very

impressive draw at Brentford.

The young Owls maintained their impressive play to defeat Brentford, who had several Premier League players, 1-1

away from the Gtech Community Stadium. Mackenzie Maltby secured an outstanding outcome by tying the score on

Wednesday.

Owen Grainger, a 17-year-old goalie for Leeds United, was announced as a Wednesday trialist. Grainger, who is

expected to have a contract expiration in the upcoming months, made several saves during the game. He has played

in higher age categories for Leeds, including frequently sitting on the bench during their Premier League 2 campaign

this season, and has also played on loan in senior football with his local team, Bridlington Town, in the Northern

Premier League.

Despite being from Yorkshire, Grainger has played for Northern Ireland at the age group level, earning three caps for

their under-17 squad. Last year, he was called up to play for the under-18 team against England and Morocco,

however he was benched.

As academies strive to scout possible new hires who are believed to be leaving their current clubs, Wednesday’s

influx of trialists is a common occurrence at clubs around the nation during this time of year. In recent days, the Star

has announced several upcoming departures from the Owls youth divisions, including Jay Buchan, Cian Flannery,

Sam Reed, and keeper Jack Hall. New deals are anticipated for Jack Phillips and Ernie Weaver.

It all comes after senior boss Danny Röhl described fresh recruitment ideas from new head of academy Jonathan

Pepper.

“He has his own ideas, especially for the recruitment and which players we must scout,” Röhl told The Star last

month. “Additionally, about personnel and the regions where we can expand our search and add additional athletes

to the academy. This is positive, as he contributes a philosophy that prioritises the growth of individual players over

that of the team.

“It’s crucial in the academy that we focus on developing the top players so they are prepared for the next phase rather

than looking too soon to enhance the squad. It’s good; I know Leipzig from experience, and after spending a lot of

time in an academy, you understand what it all means. His presence is beneficial, and perhaps it will advance the

club and this region.

Sportupdates