An owner of a second-tier football club in England has shockingly made an urgent appeal to the club’s fans, asking for their help in raising £2 million within the next few days.
This financial assistance is needed to address an outstanding debt to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) and to cover player wages.
Sheffield Wednesday, the club in question, is currently facing a registration embargo imposed by the English Football League (EFL).
Owner Dejphon Chansir acknowledged that Sheffield Wednesday is experiencing cash flow issues, a problem he attributed to global economic challenges.
He emphasised that any funds contributed by supporters would be returned to them with interest, essentially framing it as a short-term loan.
This plea for financial support comes after the club made its worst-ever start to a season, finding themselves at the bottom of the Championship.
Chansiri mentioned that failing to settle the outstanding debts by November 10 could result in a prolonged transfer ban.
Under EFL regulations, clubs are at risk of transfer bans if they accumulate persistent defaults over a year. A second default could occur if player wages are not paid and a 30-day period of cumulative breaches would lead to a ban from registering new players for three transfer windows.
MP for Sheffield Brightside and Hillsborough, Gill Furniss, said, “Very concerning news this morning about the financial position of Sheffield Wednesday. It is the responsibility of the owners to fix this, not fans. I will be seeking an urgent meeting with the Club to discuss this.
Chansiri urged fans to contribute, suggesting that 20,000 people donating £100 each could raise the necessary £2 million and resolve the financial crisis.
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