Barry Bannan reacts in four words to big Sheffield Wednesday update | OneFootball

The Owls cult hero was thrilled to see Di'shon Bernard return to the pitch this weekend

Sheffield Wednesday cult hero and midfielder Barry Bannan has reacted in four words to Di'shon Bernard's eventual return to action this weekend after an extremely lengthy spell on the sidelines.

The Jamaican centre-back featured during the Owls' Under-21s' 2-2 draw with Charlton Athletic on Sunday afternoon, 24 hours after Henrik Pedersen's first-team were held to a goalless draw by Wigan Athletic at Hillsborough.

It has been a largely positive start to the David Storch era in S6 for Wednesdayites, who this time last year were left in the dark as to the club's overall direction under the controversial ownership of Dejphon Chansiri.

After completing his takeover ahead of the final day of the 2025/26 Championship season, the American has overseen a rapid transformation in terms of developments both on the pitch and behind-the-scenes in this part of the Steel City.

As many as 18 signings were completed by Wednesday throughout the recent summer transfer window, with the standout of those being the swift and extremely emotional return of Bannan, 36.

And even though Pedersen's outfit were unable to break down the Latics on Saturday, a total of 13 points from the campaign's first six games sees them sit top of League One.

Therefore, Bernard's own return to action can now be added to a long list of recent positives.

Barry Bannan reacts in four words to big Di'shon Bernard, Sheffield Wednesday update

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It was revealed by Pedersen that Bernard, once of Manchester United, would make his first appearance in any competition for 19 months against the Addicks' Under-21s after suffering a serious knee injury against West Bromwich Albion in February 2025.

The centre-back got a total of 45 minutes under his belt after his road to recovery was delayed further just a matter of weeks ago, after it was initially hoped that he would be available throughout pre-season.

It remains to be seen when the 25-year-old will make his return to senior action after such a lengthy absence, but after the likes of Bannan, Liam Palmer, Ricardo Santos and Jamal Lowe were seen watching the encounter in the stands, the Scotsman issued a four-word response to his teammate's return to the field.

"Big Dish is back," followed by a strength and applause emoji, said Bannan, showcasing the pleasure which he felt seeing the defender back in action.

How Sheffield Wednesday fans reacted to Di'shon Bernard's return

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Unsurprisingly, Bannan was not alone when it came to those reacting to Bernard's first minutes in well over a year, with Wednesday fans also delighted, but some, understandably, feeling rather cautious when it comes to the management of his minutes.

With one image showing the 6"2 figure leaping for a header, one Owls fan said: "How high has he jumped to head that ball. Chuffing hell have they installed springs in his knees. Good to see him back."

"Wonder how long it’ll take before we see him in the starting 11," wrote another pleased Wednesdayite.

"Hope you're not to sore and came thru unscathed," responded a third supporter.

"@DishonBernard ole ole," was another comment, in reference to the chant sung for the defender at Hillsborough.

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Naturally after a long-term absence, it would be expected that Pedersen takes a cautious approach with Bernard's return to sustained periods of action in League One.

However, even when the former Red Devils academy graduate returns to full fitness, he could have his work slightly cut out to make a return to the starting lineup.

That is due to the early-season form and partnership formed by the experienced duo of the aforementioned Santos and former Leeds United captain, Liam Cooper, whilst on Saturday, Gabriel Otegbayo and the highly-rated Ernie Weaver were Pedersen's options from the bench.

Regardless, it is pleasing for all connected with the Owls that Bernard has taken a major step forward.