Huddersfield Town are now going through a period in which having personalities like Jonathan Hogg around can be important.
Town’s own on-pitch general has faced personal challenges this season and has not appeared as much as he would like.
But, perish the thought, he is not the type of player to be knocked down after more than a decade of devoted and unwavering devotion in the blue and white.
Town enter Saturday’s League One clash against Barnsley on the heels of a flat and disappointing five-match winless streak that includes three defeats.
Hogg, who has been in the starting lineup for four matches this season, has fared better than most.
At times like this, the 36-year-old can really shine both on and off the field.
He will not be caught hiding as Town look to return to winning ways at a critical point in their campaign.
Just over a month ago, after defeating Wycombe, Town began to seriously consider a top-two finish. What has happened since has caused them to nervously look over their shoulders and begin to worry about their playoff position.
Head coach Michael Duff, who returns to Oakwell for the first time since departing for Swansea City in the summer of 2023, stated: “He (Hogg) has had a big role to play this season, whether he has been on the pitch or not.”
“Supporters will not see his personality or the weight he carries in the dressing room, despite knowing everything about him.
“He was amazing when we went four months unbeaten despite not getting a single kick.
“He’s not stupid because he noticed there was a genuine togetherness among them (in midfield). But he’s come in and demonstrated that he still has a desire and fire, and he’s done everything you’d expect of him. “Organizing and getting in people’s faces.”
Leave a Reply