Dejphon Chansiri ended up losing everything in the end.
The former Thai owner of Sheffield Wednesday will be remembered as one of the worst custodians in English football history. His troubled tenure came to a close when he had to put the club into administration due to an impending winding-up petition over unpaid taxes amounting to around £1.7m.
Despite initially bringing Wednesday close to the Premier League in his first season in 2015-16, Chansiri alienated fans with his disrespectful behavior over the following years. He even went as far as putting his name on seats at Hillsborough, a move that has since been reversed.
As fans rally to support the club financially following the administration announcement, they have boycotted in-stadium spending as a form of protest against Chansiri’s management. Matchday attendance has dwindled, with only season ticket holders showing up, resulting in poor performance on the field.
Chansiri’s refusal to sell the club despite financial struggles and lack of investment has led to the current dire situation. His unwillingness to engage in fair negotiations has damaged his reputation irreparably.
With the club now docked 12 points, plummeting to the bottom of the Championship table and facing likely relegation, the impact of administration extends beyond the football pitch to employees and creditors. However, the ownership of Hillsborough being separated from the club could pave the way for a new buyer to revive the institution.
As the club looks towards a potential sale for revival, the hope remains for a new owner to restore Sheffield Wednesday to its former glory. Chansiri’s departure marks a new chapter for the club, signaling a chance for healing and regeneration within the loyal fanbase.
The future of Sheffield Wednesday hangs in the balance as potential buyers consider stepping in to save the historic club from its current predicament.
