Change of regime in the air at Owls after Walker goes
A total change of regime at Sheffield Wednesday is in the air after chief executive Kaven Walker left the club 'by mutual consent' amid a snap announcement this week, writes Alan Biggs.
Although the timing was a shock, there had been a strong indicator of such a change after it emerged that Hillsborough's new boardroom duo had already been involved in key decision-making.
The two fresh directors are fronting a global takeover enterprise on behalf of the Championship club. Four individuals or groups spanning three continents have been enlisted as potential investors for a Hillsborough buy-out due to be completed by March 31.
The bid has been put together by Wednesday shirt sponsor Lee Strafford and financial expert Nick Parker who joined the Owls board specifically to hasten a change of control.
Parker is to fill in for Walker by taking on what the club described in a statement as a "greater role." The club's bank, the Co-operative - who are owed most of Wednesday's debt of around 25m - are backing the takeover plan. It seems Strafford and Parker have hands-on power in ushering the club towards a new era. As such, the club is in their direction and key personnel changes often follow in such circumstances.
Walker, very much the right hand man of former chairman Dave Allen, had become a much-maligned figure. He could be abrasive in style and - until fronting recent moves to repair relations with fans - had been seen as a divisive figure by some supporters.
However, Walker played a lead part in keeping the club on an even keel during the difficult year that followed Allen's resignation. He has been the bridge between the old guard and potential new owners.
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Weather for Sheffield
Wednesday 08 February 2012
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Temperature: -4 C to 0 C
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