Amid the chaos of administration and a 12-point penalty, Sheffield Wednesday manager Henrik Pedersen has struck a defiant note of optimism, calling the move a “fresh restart.” The Owls were plunged to -6 points, 15 from safety, after owner Dejphon Chansiri appointed administrators.
“We knew from the last five, six, seven, eight months it cannot continue,” Pedersen told staff. “A sad situation can also still be a good day… Now there is a belief, a hope, there is a feeling of looking towards better days.”
The administration was triggered by a deepening financial crisis, including $pounds{}$1 million in unpaid taxes and repeated failure to pay wages. This mismanagement, blamed on Chansiri by fans, led to a “bittersweet” reaction from supporters “overjoyed” to see him go.
The club is now in the hands of Begbies Traynor. The administrators met with “emotional” staff and players, with Pedersen expressing hope that job losses could be avoided. They will now market the club and Hillsborough stadium as a package.
The Supporters Trust is also looking to the future, calling for an end to boycotts. “The phase of resistance has achieved its goal,” a statement read. “Now begins the phase of renewal.”
