Liam Palmer has laid out his goals for the 2024-25 season after signing a new contract with Sheffield Wednesday.
Liam Palmer joined Sheffield Wednesday’s academy back in 1999, before going onto make his senior debut eleven years later.
The defender has since racked up 435 appearances for the Owls, but there was concern that his time at Hillsborough would be brought to an end this summer.
Palmer ended up being a pivotal player inDanny Rohl‘s rescue this term, playing across the defence and midfield as they avoided relegation.
It was unclear whether the 32-year-old would be offered a new contract until the club’s retained list was released in May, before it was confirmed he had put pen to paper on a new deal last week.
Palmer joins Barry Bannan in extending their stays at Hillsborough, having spent a total of 34 years at the club between them.
The veteran is now preparing to help the Owls claim a top-half finish next season, but has also laid out his personal goals.
Liam Palmer wants to climb the Sheffield Wednesday rankings
Speaking to the club’s official website, he said: “I’m so thankful for the strong connection with the fans, with time it’s built so strongly. With me and Baz signing, it shows our intent. I was keen to sign early and show that I’m ready to go.
“Over the last few seasons, I’ve averaged around 40 games each year. Hopefully I can get closer to fifth spot in the all-time rankings, and then who knows after that.
“Your longer-term goals change all the time, but obviously it’s in the back of my mind. It ties in nicely with wanting to play as often as possible and hopefully I can have a good preseason and start well… I’ve made a lifetime of memories so far and I don’t want that to stop anytime soon.”
Will the defender still be a regular next season?
Liam Palmer will be turning 33 years old in September, but his versatility could still make him a key member of the squad.
Sheffield Wednesday will be urged to bring in some new defenders this summer, with free agent Charlie Goode already on their radar.
The Owls shouldn’t have to rely on Palmer as much if they are able to bring in their transfer targets, but his leadership, experience and ability to play all over the pitch can be really useful.
It would be a real fairytale if Palmer was able to finish his career at Hillsborough, though fans will surely expect his game-time to decline as they gradually push for the play-offs.
It shouldn’t take him too long to creep up the all-time appearance rankings though, with seventh-place Don Megson just seven matches ahead, while he can enter the top five if he makes 30 appearances next season.
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