The 1995-96 campaign delivered a deeply frustrating season for Sheffield Wednesday, finishing a precarious 15th in the Premier League, their worst top-flight showing since promotion in 1991. Manager David Pleat struggled to integrate new signings like Marc Degryse, but the year was redeemed by the welcome return of cult hero David Hirst, who netted 13 crucial league goals after a two-year injury struggle. Despite the struggle and an early exit from the UEFA Intertoto Cup, the team, featuring icons like Chris Waddle and Des Walker, managed to avoid relegation, securing key results like a 0-0 home draw against Manchester United in a season defined by inconsistency and disappointment.. The 1996-97 campaign was a season of high ambition for Sheffield Wednesday, with The Owls finishing a respectable 7th in the Premier League after a sensational four-match winning start that briefly put them atop the table. Leading the charge with 10 crucial league goals (13 overall) was the prolific striker Andy Booth, anchoring a talented side that reached the FA Cup Quarter-finals, and providing a foundation of exciting football for the Hillsborough faithful.