A clear-out could be on the cards at Sheffield Wednesday – will these 12 players be involved?
Sheffield Wednesday are expected to at least try to overhaul their squad this summer, after a season of regression in the Championship and a new manager – Jos Luhukay – in place.
But which players could depart Hillsborough in the coming months? HITC Sport’s four-part series continues here, with the 12 Owls players entering the final year of their contracts this summer…
Keiren Westwood
Reasons he could go: A likely high earner. The emergence of academy pair Joe Wildsmith and Cameron Dawson has shown Wednesday can survive without him.
Reasons he’ll stay: Still the best goalkeeper at the club. A lack of football this season may deter potential suitors.
Jack Hunt
Reasons he could go: Nothing obvious.
Reasons he’ll stay: He’s the Owls’ first choice right-back.
Liam Palmer
Reasons he could go: Likely to continue as Hunt’s understudy. A regular scapegoat among fans.
Reasons he’ll stay: Is a competent stand in (although some may disagree). From the area and loves the club.
Morgan Fox
Reasons he could go: Is yet to properly convince since his move to Hillsborough 15 months ago, and recently lost his place to George Boyd – a midfielder. Could be easily upgraded (in theory).
Reasons he’ll stay: With Daniel Pudil out of contract, he may be the only natural left-back remaining.
David Jones
Reasons he could go: Another thought to take home a substantial pay packet. Would not be first choice with everyone fit.
Reasons he’ll stay: Others may be ahead of him in the queue to be culled.
Almen Abdi
Reasons he could go: Rumoured to be among the top earners at Wednesday, a status which is not reflected by his impact so far. His fitness cannot be relied upon.
Reasons he’ll stay: Wages may be too high for others, who may have also noticed that his best days are behind him.
Barry Bannan
Reasons he could go: Others may have spotted he’s quite good at football. Owls will have to consider some sales.
Reasons he’ll stay: One of the first on the teamsheet when fit. Could be hard to replace.
Kieran Lee
Reasons he could go: See Bannan.
Reasons he’ll stay: Recent fitness problems likely to deter suitors.
George Boyd
Reasons he could go: Another whose performances have not warranted his sizeable salary. Had interest last summer.
Reasons he’ll stay: Again – wages could price teams out. His performances have improved the fitter he’s become.
Marco Matias
Reasons he could go: Too unreliable, both in terms of fitness and temperament. May revert to being a fringe player with others back fit.
Reasons he’ll stay: Showed glimpses of the player Wednesday thought they were getting in fleeting appearances under Luhukay.
Gary Hooper
Reasons he could go: Remains the Owls’ 11-goal top scorer, despite having missed the last three months. Has top flight and Champions League pedigree.
Reasons he’ll stay: Is the club’s primary source of goals – and, as one of his former managers would say, an important ‘link player’.
Lucas Joao
Reasons he could go: Bang in form. Good age (24). Has potential to get better.
Reasons he’ll stay: If Wednesday have any sense they’ll extend his contract, which should increase his value going forward.
Which players do you expect to leave Sheffield Wednesday this summer?
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
