Sheffield Wednesday is in deep crisis after being placed into administration by owner Dejphon Chansiri and subsequently docked 12 points by the EFL. The penalty leaves the historic club on -6 points, facing an almost certain drop to League One.
The administration is the result of a severe cash-flow problem, with the club failing to pay staff and players on time in five of the last seven months and owing $pounds{}$1 million to HMRC. The Supporters Trust blames “years of financial mismanagement” by Chansiri.
Fans, however, found a silver lining, describing the day as “bittersweet” as it marks the end of Chansiri’s ownership. The trust stated it was “overjoyed” to see him “out of our club for good.” Seats with his name were seen being removed from the stands.
Manager Henrik Pedersen tried to rally the club, telling staff and players that a “fresh restart” was needed. “When I close my eyes, I can see a bright future for Sheffield Wednesday,” he said, despite the 15-point gap to safety.
Administrator Begbies Traynor is now in control, seeking a “swift sale” of the club and its stadium. They are calling on fans who had boycotted in protest to return and provide the “stability and income” the club now desperately needs.