Former Hillsborough MP David Blunkett issues message to EFL amid race to buy Sheffield Wednesday
Lord David Blunkett has issued a message to the English Football League on behalf of “long-suffering” Owls supporters.
The former Sheffield Brightside and Hillsborough MP said fans wanted administrators to consider the long-term future of the club when choosing a preferred bidder.
And he urged the EFL to “interpret their rules” in the interests of supporters.
Sheffield Wednesday is for sale after falling into administration under the ownership of Dejphon Chansiri.
It will play in League One next season after being relegated following the Steel City derby at Bramall Lane on Sunday, when the Owls lost 2-1 to Sheffield United.
This week, a consortium led by former professional poker player James Bord pulled out of a sale, stating a new valuation of the club was “significantly lower” than the £30m they offered.
The move opened the door to other potential suitors including billionaire former Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley and US businessman David Storch.
Lord Blunkett said: “I think all fans will now want a truly realistic approach by the administrators to a credible bid, which takes into account the long-term wellbeing of the club, and not just a marginal difference in financial terms.
“Above all, that the EFL interpret their rules in the interests of football, of players, non-playing staff, the squad manager, and, above all, the long-suffering supporters.
“Any further points deduction punishes the innocent whilst failing completely to recognise the culpability of Dejphon Chansiri as the sole owner and chairman who brought this great club to its knees.”
He said: “The EFL wants the bidder to pay 25 per cent of the debts of creditors or get a points deduction next season. But no one is going to buy the club on that basis.
“They should do the points deduction this season, because if the EFL digs in the club could end up in liquidation.”
It is understood the club has debts of about £68m, consisting of about £61.2m owed to Chansiri and £6.6m to others including creditors and administrators.