Two Lincoln City Academy Graduates Enjoy Landmark Senior Moments

Two Lincoln City Academy graduates had landmark evenings on Tuesday, in different ways.

Denny Oliver, released by the Imps, made his full debut for Sheffield Wednesday, while Oisin Gallagher played 90 minutes for Ireland Under 21s against England Under 21s, helping them to a massive victory.

Starting with Oliver, he was on the bench for the Owls’ EFL Trophy game, or, to give it its new name, the Jersey Mike’s Trophy. The hosts led 1-0 at the break, before a raft of changes which included Oliver coming on for Callum Slattery.

He is described by the Sheffield Star as having ‘put himself about and showed for the ball.’ The Owls won 2-0, with another half-time sub, Barry Bannan, netting late on, to ensure they progress to the next round of the competition.

It was a landmark moment for Denny, whose brothers Lewie and Kenzie are still in the Imps’ academy. Released by us a couple of seasons ago, he followed Jon Pepper to Hillsborough, and has had loan spells with Bridlington and Brighouse as he looks to transition into senior football.

The other big achiever was a little closer to home. Oisin Gallagher, on loan at Barnet, played 90 minutes for Ireland Under-21s against England Under-21s as they ran out 3-1 winners.

The victory secured Ireland a place in the Euro 2027 play-offs and second spot in their qualifying group, having begun the international window five points behind Slovakia. Doing so by beating England, the reigning European champions, made it an especially memorable night at a sold-out Turner’s Cross.

Gallagher started as Ireland recovered from Tyler Dibling’s early opener, with Tommy Lonergan equalising before Conor McManus put the hosts ahead before half-time. Lonergan added his second in the 63rd minute, while goalkeeper Noah Jauny produced a string of saves to keep England at bay during the closing stages.

Gallagher, sharing the pitch with the likes of Will Lankshear, Amario Cozier-Duberry and Max Alleyne, played at right centre-back, having played briefly in midfield for their 2-0 victory against Slovakia last week.