LONDON – Jamaica international Di’Shon Bernard has ambitious plans after signing a contract extension with English League Championship club, Sheffield Wednesday.
The 23-year-old defender, who joined the Owls last summer from English Premier League giants Manchester United, has committed to a new three-year deal with the club.
Bernard finalized his contract extension ahead of the first team’s trip to Germany and Austria this week, where they will begin preparations for the 2024-25 campaign. The towering defender will join his teammates, including nine new signings such as fellow Jamaican Jamal Lowe, former Chelsea youth teammate Nathaniel Chalobah, and former Manchester United forward Charlie McNeill.
Significant impact with the Owls last season
“I’ve seen the signings come in, and I’ve spoken to a few of the boys, it sounds like the level has gone up, so credit to the guys that have come in,” Bernard said. “It looks like they’ve hit the ground running. I obviously know a few of the guys that have come in; Jamz, Nathaniel, Charlie. They’ve all hit the ground running and are doing well, so hopefully that can be a big plus for us in the season coming.”
Bernard made a significant impact with the Owls last season, appearing in 36 matches across all competitions. His strong relationship with head coach Danny Röhl played a crucial role in his decision to extend his stay at the club. Bernard shares a common goal with Röhl: to elevate Sheffield Wednesday back to the Premier League.
“Me and the gaffer have a really great relationship,” Bernard said. “I know his talent and we both have the same goal, the same picture at the end of the tunnel, which is to get to the Premier League. Hopefully, we can do that together with Sheffield Wednesday and get back there.”
Sheffield Wednesday finished 20th
Bernard rejoined the club after fulfilling international commitments with the Reggae Boyz during the CONCACAF qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the Copa America, bringing his total caps to 17.
Sheffield Wednesday finished 20th in the 24-team League Championship table last season, just three points above the relegation zone with 53 points. The Owls will open the 2024-25 season against Plymouth Argyle, coached by former Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney, on Sunday, August 11, on home soil.
Bernard’s contract extension and the influx of new talent signal Sheffield Wednesday’s determination to improve on last season’s performance and aim for promotion to the Premier League.
