Sheffield Wednesday cult hero secures out-of-window switch - immediately makes debut
The transfer market never truly sleeps.
A one-time Sheffield Wednesday cult hero made a victorious debut for a new club on Tuesday - just hours after his loan switch from Chesterfield was confirmed.
Powerful centre-half Chey Dunkley played only 36 times for the Owls across two injury-struck years but became something of a fan favourite for his enthusiastic playing style and bullish personality. His fitness struggles seemed to leave him behind with 2022 move to Shrewsbury Town, where he acted as captain across two seasons of near ever-present status.
On Tuesday it was announced that he had joined Solihull Moors on a short-term loan, a move that moves him closer to his beloved Midlands. He jumped straight into action, playing the full match as the strugglers secured only their second win of the campaign - a 4-2 win at Woking, previously four unbeaten. Former Owls midfield youngster Rio Shipston came off the bench for Moors.
Speaking on Dunkley’s arrival, Moors boss Chris Millington said: “Chey brings a huge amount of experience and leadership to the group. He’s a commanding defender who will give us real strength at the back, and we’re delighted to have him with us.”
He is into a third season with the Spireites and the 34-year-old has not yet featured in League Two football this season, with his name left off the squad registration list alongside that of former Northern Ireland forward Will Grigg. Manager Paul Cook has praised both for their attitude in recent times, saying: "The reality is that the two lads have conducted themselves magnificently well.”
Chesterfield chairman Ashley Kirk said: “We have got a recall option if we need it and Chey can go and play football and that’s good for him.”