Sheffield Wednesday Fans Protest as Club Faces Financial Crisis

Sheffield Wednesday supporters are voicing growing concern over the club’s financial crisis under owner Dejphon Chansiri. The situation has worsened with delayed wages, transfer embargoes, and the closure of Hillsborough’s North Stand. Many fans now fear the club could face relegation or worse if Chansiri does not sell soon.

Unpaid Wages and Embargoes

Players and staff have faced repeated delays in salary payments, with wages arriving late in March, May, June, and July. The club is under multiple English Football League embargoes, including restrictions on registering new players due to unpaid transfer fees and HMRC debts.

Stand Closure and Lack of Communication

The North Stand at Hillsborough has been closed after failing to meet safety standards. Fans like 84-year-old Bill Button, who holds a disabled section season ticket, say they’ve received no updates from the club. “I’m really fed up with it. I get really low, feeling really down,” Button told the BBC.

Supporters Organize Protests

The Sheffield Wednesday Supporters Trust has announced plans to protest at the club’s opening Championship fixture against Leicester City. Fans will delay entry to the away end by five minutes to highlight their discontent. More demonstrations are planned for the first home game against Stoke City.

Chansiri’s Response and Takeover Stalemate

Chansiri has claimed he rejected bids of £30 million and £40 million for the club, but fans believe his asking price is unrealistic. Local MPs have attempted to meet with him, but were reportedly told, “What has it got to do with you?” by the Thai businessman.