Henrik Pedersen explains Yan Valery absence amid Sheffield Wednesday exit possibility
The absence of Yan Valery from the Sheffield Wednesday squad that lost out at Bristol City set fan tongues wagging amid the continued possibility of a January transfer away.
The Tunisia international is of interest to the likes of Rangers, Wrexham and others and is a player that could leave the club this month as it seeks to raise funds through player sales to safeguard against the costs associated with an extended administration process.
A six-figure deal that will see youngster Yisa Alao make the switch to Premier League giants Chelsea is expected to complete in the next few days, with the club also having rejected an offer from Portsmouth for Svante Ingelsson. Other players are of interest elsewhere, though full international Valery is under contract until the summer of 2027 and is seen as the squad’s most saleable asset.
Owls boss Henrik Pedersen explained ahead of the 2-0 defeat at Ashton Gate that both Valery and Ingelsson were injury concerns heading into the weekend. The Swede came through to start the clash, but it came too soon for Valery, who stayed behind at Middlewood Road to continue light training on his road to recovery.
Speaking to The Star, Pedersen said: “In had problems in the game (v Birmingham) and this is the main reason why he is not playing. He has problems. There is speculation about him, but there is speculation around many players right now.
“He has done some light work (at Middlewood Road) today. But I cannot say if he will be back Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday. He can be back but I am not sure.”
The Star’s latest understanding of Valery’s situation as of last update is that the club have not received a firm bid for the player, though they are aware of interest. Scottish giants Rangers are managed by former Owls boss Danny Röhl, with whom Valery is known to have a fond relationship formed out of their shared time at Southampton. Wrexham have been admirers for some time and other clubs are understood to be interested.