Sheffield Wednesday have sacked manager Henrik Pedersen with immediate effect, creating a managerial vacancy ahead of their League One fixture against Cambridge United. The decision was announced on Sunday, less than 24 hours after a 2-0 defeat away to Doncaster Rovers.
Sporting Director Simon Wilson confirmed the departure in a club statement. "First and foremost, I want to thank Henrik for his professionalism, commitment and contribution during an exceptionally challenging period for Sheffield Wednesday," Wilson said. The 48-year-old Pedersen had a win rate of 19% across 64 games in charge, with his League One record this season standing at five wins, three draws and three losses from 11 matches. The club said the search for a new manager will begin immediately.
The defeat at Doncaster was the Owls' second successive away loss in four days and dropped them to eighth in the league table. They now sit two places and two points behind sixth-placed Cambridge United, who have 20 points from their opening 12 games. United's recent form of three wins from their last five matches, including a 2-3 home loss to Plymouth on Saturday, has them firmly in the playoff conversation.
Interim setup and potential replacements
Matt Hamshaw, a former Rotherham United head and part of Pedersen's backroom staff, is expected to take interim charge for the visit of Cambridge United. Dave Challinor, currently managing in the National League, has been mentioned as a potential candidate for the permanent role. Sheffield Wednesday player Liam Cooper stated the team needs to 'come out swinging' and improve their performance under the new temporary leadership, acknowledging the players must take responsibility for recent results.
Cambridge United’s recent form
They currently occupy sixth spot, five points behind leaders Huddersfield Town. Their last outing was a narrow 2-3 defeat to Plymouth, with goals from Sullay Kaikai and Shayne Lavery. Manager Mark Bonner has praised his team's resilience and attacking intent throughout the campaign. The team's overall record this season stands at five wins, five draws and two losses, having scored 20 goals and conceded 17. Their recent form, reading three wins, one draw and one defeat from the last five, includes the 2-2 draw with Wycombe on Tuesday 20 October and a 2-1 victory at Barnsley on Saturday 17 October. Shayne Lavery, who scored against Plymouth, is a key attacking threat.
This midweek fixture presents a significant opportunity for United to extend their positive form against a side in transition. The game kicks off on Tuesday, 27 October 2026, at Hillsborough.
More detail at footballlowdown.com
