Sheffield Wednesday Captain Barry Bannan Finds ‘Huge Relief’ in Administration as Club Pursues Fresh Start
Sheffield Wednesday’s captain, Barry Bannan, expressed a sense of “huge relief” following the club’s recent administration announcement. This development, which took place last week, signifies an end to the troubled ownership of Dejphon Chansiri. The club was placed into administration by the insolvency firm Begbies Traynor, raising hopes for a fresh start.
Transition to Administration
Barry Bannan conveyed his feelings during an interview with Sky Sports. He noted that the previous months had been challenging. “Month by month, we didn’t feel there was anything around the club that was positive,” he explained. The club’s financial struggles, stemming from Chansiri’s acquisition in 2015, led to various penalties from the English Football League (EFL).
Financial Crisis Under Chansiri
- 2015: Dejphon Chansiri purchases Sheffield Wednesday.
- Summer 2023: The club faces significant financial difficulties.
- June 3, 2023: Club and owner charged with breaching EFL payment regulations.
- June 27, 2023: Another embargo imposed due to unpaid taxes.
- October 24, 2023: Sheffield Wednesday files for administration.
As a consequence of administration, the club received an automatic 12-point deduction, leaving them at the bottom of the Championship, 16 points shy of safety. Despite these setbacks, both the EFL and the current administration are optimistic about finding a new owner quickly.
Community Response and Future Prospects
While some fans have boycotted matches recently to accelerate Chansiri’s departure, a notable turnout of 27,261 attended a recent home game against Oxford United. Bannan, who is eighth on the club’s all-time appearance list, reaffirmed his commitment by signing a new contract in August.
“The players and staff have been amazing. Everyone has worked together professionally,” he said, expressing hope for better days ahead.
Key Events Leading to Administration
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| June 3 | Charges filed for breaching EFL regulations |
| June 18 | Embargo imposed by the EFL |
| July 29 | Manager Danny Röhl departs |
| October 24 | Club files for administration |
Bannan indicated that the transition out of Chansiri’s ownership is necessary for the club’s revival. “The way it’s gone the last couple of months, I think that’s what the club needs,” he stated. Optimism surrounds the potential sale with ‘four or five’ serious bidders reportedly in contention for ownership of Hillsborough.
