Monk’s light is fading

Our voice of the North

GARRY MONK challenged his players this week, asking whether they had the “pure inner desire to win.”

That question cut directly to the heart of the performances from Sheffield Wednesday since Christmas. It indicated that battles are being fought off the pitch, more than on it.

Yesterday the Owls took a sell-out 2,800 fan allocation to Birmingham, despite their team plunging from third to mid-table and out of promotion reckoning.

Wednesday could head even further south in the Championship, even face a relegation worry, if they are deducted points by the EFL in the next few weeks.

A verdict on a misconduct charge from the EFL for alleged breaches of accounting and profit rules – the ‘sell your stadium to rich owner at big price, then lease it back’ trick – is expected soon.

No wonder Monk talks of a light at the end of the tunnel that “has dimmed” recently.

Wednesday should be contenders to go up. Earlier this season they were effervescent. In recent weeks they’ve had no spark.

Monk appears to be fire-fighting behind the scenes, with dressingroom personalities fuming at being axed.

“An extra level of tenacity...” is what he’s demanded, not wishywashy effort levels and sulking.

What’s been served up recently disgraces a mighty club, and a loyal, feisty fan base. Worse, there is an example three miles up the road at United of hope grasped from a low ebb, and a club rebuilt on spirit, desire and organisation.

For now any old win will do. Monk’s message is correct: “Have pride in yourselves. We have lost games too

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