HUDDERSFIELD 15/09,12:00PM
Our next two fixtures see the Owls play two of last season's relegated sides from the Premier League. First up. Wednesday visit the John Smith's Stadium to face a side that have seemed to be struggling to adapt to the Championship.
The Terriers built an identity under the stewardship of former enigmatic manager David Wagner.
A summer of change gathered less attention than the media campaign of Paddy Power who vowed to 'unsponsor' the club to help with their Save Our Shirt campaign. However good the PR was for the club and sponsor off the pitch, the team have struggled on it.
The appointment of Jan Siewert as Wagner's successor was a shock to many and ultimately proved unsuccessful. the German managed only one win in 19 games. And following defeat to League One outfit Lincoln in the Carabao Cup earlier this month, Siewert and Huddersfield parted ways.
Former Crystal Palace, Cardiff and Huddersfield centre back Mark Hudson is the current caretaker manager, with reports suggesting the Terriers may move to the German market once more for a permanent appointment.
FULHAM 21/09, 3:00PM
In contrast to the Terriers, Fulham have made a much steadier start to their Championship campaign under the guidance of Scott Parker.
Parker has a strong affinity with the family values of the club, enjoying a lengthy relationship with Fulham thus far. However, his four years as a player and one as manager pale into insignificance when compared to Cottagers legend Frank Penn.
From 1915 to 1934 Penn represented the club on no less than 459 occasions across 19 seasons, in which he scored 52 goals. And Penn's relationship with Fulham was extended beyond his playing days, going on to become a trainer with the first team. He was in this role until 1965, meaning he spent an incredible 50 years in total with Fulham.
For all his notable footballing ability, Penn will always be remembered for his loyalty. During his time with the West Londoners, he set a new appearance record which was completed following his final appearance against West Ham in 1934. He held the record for 30 years and has since only been surpassed by three men — Les Barrett, Eddie Lowe and Johnny Haynes.
His immediate transition into trainer at the end of his playing career showed Penn's determination to remain a part of the Fulham set-up. He later qualified as a physiotherapist before retiring from the role in 1965.
Penn worked under 13 different managers across his 50 years and passed away a year after retirement in 1966 aged 70.
Peter Jones
@PeterKennyJones
