Cole McGhee

Cole James McGhee is an English professional footballer who plays as a centre-back for Sheffield Wednesday.

Born in Coventry, McGhee began his development with hometown club Coventry City before joining Preston North End as a scholar in May 2022. He progressed through Preston’s academy and gained his first experience of senior football during a work-experience loan with National League North side Chorley in 2025.

McGhee left Preston following the expiration of his contract and joined Sheffield Wednesday on 2 July 2025. He was one of six young players awarded professional deals by the Owls ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

The left-footed defender made his senior Wednesday debut in the EFL Cup against Leeds United. McGhee started the second-round tie as the Owls progressed following a penalty shootout.

His Championship debut arrived against Blackburn Rovers on 29 December 2025 in unusual circumstances. Initially named among the substitutes, McGhee was promoted to the starting line-up after Liam Cooper withdrew during the warm-up.

McGhee continued to feature for the first team during the remainder of the campaign, gaining valuable senior experience alongside appearances at Under-21 level. In May 2026, Sheffield Wednesday exercised the option in his contract, extending his stay at Hillsborough until the summer of 2027.