Sheffield Wednesday aiming higher after ‘minor miracle’ – re-signed Owl thanks support

Palmer committed his future to the club last week, penning a new deal to remain at Hillsborough as he looks to continue chasing down the top spot in the club’s list of all-time appearance-makers.

He’s some way off for now, sitting eighth on 435, but he’s raring to go after a fourth season playing 38+ games, and ‘Palms’ insists that there’s no reason they can’t make sure they’re nowhere near a relegation scrap in the new campaign.

“Last season was a minor miracle,” he told the club’s official website. “Given the position we found ourselves in and to finish the season so strongly… We’ve shown that we can compete and be a match for teams, so with a few additions and the manager having a full preseason, there’s no reason why we can’t aim higher up the table.

“We know we have different weapons in our arsenal to turn games around and deal with different situations. We want to hit the ground running, we’ve seen what a bad start can do, so we want to be one of the teams starting well in those first six games to build a solid foundation.

“I missed a chunk of pre-season last summer, so I’m keen to hit the ground running, being fit and ready to go.”

He went on to add, “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.

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“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.”

The record for most Wednesday appearances is currently held – as it has been for many, many years – by the great Andrew Wilson (546), however the next name for Palmer to catch is Don Megson on 442.