Confirmed change for Nigel Pearson’s Sheffield Wednesday homecoming to avoid Prince Philip funeral clash

The fixture will mark a return to Hillsborough for Wednesday legend, Nigel Pearson, for the first time since his Leicester City side were beaten 2-1 back in December 2013, as he – no doubt with a heavy heart – looks to put another dent in their bid for Championship survival.

Pearson, who is a hero in S6, has a mixed big of results against his former club in the past, winning three and losing three during his time in charge of the Foxes.

It was originally scheduled for a 3pm kick off, but with the royal funeral (beginning with a moment’s silence at 3pm) happening at the same time, the English Football League confirmed over the weekend that they would be moving all fixtures designated for that slot.

An EFL spokesperson last week said, "As a mark of respect, EFL matches scheduled for 3pm on Saturday 17 April will be moved to avoid a clash with the funeral.

"The EFL will now work with its clubs to determine at what time the matches will be played, giving consideration to the timing of the service. An announcement will follow in due course."

Now, after teams across the country held a two-minute silence in honour of His Royal Highness, it has been confirmed that the Owls’ fixture against the Robins has been brought forward substantially.

A statement on Wednesday’s official website today read, “The Owls’ home game against Bristol City on Saturday will kick off at 12.30pm.

“The Championship fixture was scheduled for a regular 3.00pm start but moves so not to coincide with the funeral of His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.

“Supporters are also reminded of the kick-off times when we host Swansea this Tuesday (6.00pm) and Blackburn on 20 April (7.00pm).”

Wednesday have just six games left to save their skins in the second tier as we approach the business end of a torrid season, but – with 18 points left to play for – they’re still in with a chance.

Next up for Darren Moore, who will return to the bench after a Coronavirus-caused exile, is a visit from Swansea City tomorrow evening at 6pm.

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