Graham Potter speaks out on Brighton player’s situation as Sheffield Wednesday eye transfer | OneFootball

Icon: Football League World

Football League World

·18 January 2022

Graham Potter speaks out on Brighton player’s situation as Sheffield Wednesday eye transfer

Article image:Graham Potter speaks out on Brighton player’s situation as Sheffield Wednesday eye transfer

Graham Potter has suggested that Sheffield Wednesday target Haydon Roberts needs to go out on loan to get game time this season.

According to a report from the Brighton & Hove Independent, the Owls are interested in bringing the defender to the club for the remainder of the season.


OneFootball Videos


At 19-years old, Roberts hasn’t found a way into Potter’s side this season, so is in need of gaining experience elsewhere to develop his game.

Potter admitted as much when asked about the player, suggesting they are looking for a club that he can go to this January.

“It is difficult for Haydon, he is competing in a really strong area of the pitch for us. I think he has to be patient, he probably has to keep working, might have to look at a loan situation for him to play some football,” said Potter, via Sussex Live.

“You have to look at our defensive record – one of the best in the Premier League. So the guys that have done it have done it well.

“So it is just unfortunate that he is at the start of his career and he has to probably be patient and wait for his opportunity.

“The decision wouldn’t necessarily be taken on the back of that. We want him to enjoy his football, keep progressing.”

Quiz: Can you name which club Sheffield Wednesday signed these 20 strikers from?

1 of 20

Article image:Graham Potter speaks out on Brighton player’s situation as Sheffield Wednesday eye transfer

Saido Berahino?

West Brom Zulte Waregem Anderlecht Charleroi

Sheffield Wednesday are in the market for a centre back, with Roberts said to be one of their top targets. Potter’s Brighton side are flying high in the Premier League and unbeaten since December 15. The Seagulls are ninth in the table.

Meanwhile, Darren Moore’s side are fighting for the play-off places in League One. Wednesday are currently eighth in the table, off the back of a 4-2 home win against Plymouth Argyle.

That was a much needed victory following 1-0 and 5-0 defeats to Shrewsbury and Sunderland respectively.

Wednesday next face Oxford United away on January 22.

The Verdict

Wednesday have had defensive issues this season, not least of which came during the humiliation against Sunderland recently.

While Roberts is highly rated, he hasn’t been able to break through into the solid backline of Brighton. This makes the switch to Wednesday on loan a perfect fit.

Roberts will be much more assured of consistent game time to gain the experience he needs, and Wednesday will be getting a capable upgrade in their defence for the rest of the season.

View publisher imprint