Amidst a backdrop of financial turmoil and uncertainty at Sheffield Wednesday, club captain Barry Bannan has committed his future to the Owls, signing a new contract and declaring, "This club is part of me". The announcement comes as a welcome boost to the club and its supporters, who have witnessed a summer of unprecedented challenges.
Sheffield Wednesday is currently facing a severe financial crisis, with growing concerns about the club's ability to fulfill its Championship match obligations. The English Football League (EFL) is reportedly increasingly alarmed by the situation, as the club grapples with mounting debts, delayed payments to HMRC, and missed salary payments to staff and players. Several first-team players have terminated their contracts due to consecutive late wage payments, and manager Danny Rohl has also departed. The situation is so dire that players were reportedly informed they would need to cover their own hotel accommodations for away games. A pre-season friendly against Burnley was cancelled after players refused to participate. The club has been placed under a transfer embargo, preventing them from making new player acquisitions for the next three transfer windows. The EFL has charged both the club and owner Dejphon Chansiri for violating regulations regarding unpaid wages.
Despite the chaos, Barry Bannan, whose previous contract expired at the end of June, has decided to extend his stay at Hillsborough. The 35-year-old midfielder's decision provides a much-needed lift for the club and its fans. Bannan's commitment is particularly significant considering the reported wage restrictions in place at the club, believed to be around £7,000 per week. It is likely he has taken a pay cut to remain with Sheffield Wednesday.
Bannan's decision was influenced by his deep connection to the club and the city. "This club is a big part of me and my family," Bannan stated. He also revealed that his daughter's emotional reaction to the prospect of him leaving played a role in his decision. "We had a lot of conversations as a family, and when I told my daughter Elsie that I might be leaving, she started crying," Bannan explained. "Then last night when I told her I was staying, she started crying again. I asked her why, and she said they are just happy tears".
Bannan joined Sheffield Wednesday in 2015 and has since made almost 450 appearances for the club, placing him eighth on the club's all-time list. His decade-long service and unwavering commitment have made him a beloved figure among the Wednesday faithful.
The news of Bannan's contract extension has been met with widespread relief and jubilation among Sheffield Wednesday supporters. In a summer defined by relentless bad news, Bannan's loyalty offers a glimmer of hope amidst the uncertainty.
