Manager Henrik Pedersen is rallying his Sheffield Wednesday squad for an improbable survival fight, urging them to be “a new Sheffield Wednesday with an old heart.” His call to arms comes after the club was placed in administration and deducted 12 points, leaving them on -6.
The penalty, which puts the Owls 15 points from safety, was triggered by owner Dejphon Chansiri appointing administrators. This ends Chansiri’s tenure, a move celebrated by fans who blame him for “years of financial mismanagement,” including $pounds{}$1 million in tax debts and unpaid wages.
Pedersen met with administrators from Begbies Traynor, along with “emotional” staff and players. He acknowledged the “insecurity” but insisted “there is a belief, a hope” for a “bright future.” He said the situation of the past few months “cannot continue.”
The Supporters Trust, which had organised boycotts of matches and merchandise, declared the “phase of resistance” over. They are now urging fans to return to Hillsborough, starting with Saturday’s match against Oxford, to provide the “stability and income” needed for the “phase of renewal.”
The administrators are now tasked with finding a new owner “as swiftly as possible.” They confirmed they would sell the club and the stadium as a single entity, which they believe is “great news for supporters.”