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SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY has been cautioned that they might end up with a series of AI-driven signings following their new controversial takeover.
James Bord, the owner of a Scottish Championship team, is one of three members of a consortium chosen as the preferred bidder for the struggling club.
Sheffield Wednesday is hoping for a significant turnaround in fortunesCredit: Getty
However, there have been several concerns regarding their prospective new ownerCredit: Getty
He previously held a consultancy position with Sheffield Wednesday's main rival, Sheffield United.
Sheffield Star reporter Alan Biggs asserts that he played a key role in several ill-fated decisions , including the dismissal of Chris Wilder, the hiring of Ruben Selles, and other moves.
Biggs also mentioned that numerous knowledgeable individuals within the football community believe 'he lacks expertise.'
Bord himself is a former professional poker player who has earned millions on the professional circuit.
He has not yet commented on his approach to transfers or the coaching staff he will implement if his takeover is finalized.
However, in a statement released by his analytics firm, Short Circuit Science, he did identify the other members of the consortium aiming to acquire the club.
It stated: “The consortium is a privately-funded group of investors led by James Bord and Felix Roemer.
“The consortium emphasizes long-term, responsible investment solely supported by its own capital, focusing on stable governance, operational discipline, and data-informed decision-making.
“It unites complementary expertise in technology, analytics, and high-growth ventures to foster sustainable performance in the organizations it engages with.
“The consortium is committed to the long-term sustainable ownership of this historic club and aims to preserve and enhance its legacy.
“It seeks to strengthen Sheffield Wednesday to help the club reclaim its position at the top of the game.”
It was later disclosed that Alsharif Faisal Bin Jamil, a member of the Jordanian Royal Family, will also be part of the takeover consortium.
There have been several notable professional gamblers who have achieved great success while managing English football clubs.
If Bord can assist Wednesday in mirroring the achievements of Brighton under Tony Bloom—a poker professional himself—or Brentford under Matthew Benham, the concerns raised by those worried about his tenure at Bramall Lane may ultimately be unfounded.
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The Owls have been in administration since October, but at the end of last year, administrators announced a deal had been reached with potential new owners.
A club statement on Christmas Eve regarding potential new ownership stated: “Sheffield Wednesday can confirm that the administrators, Begbies Traynor, intend to grant preferred bidder status to a consortium following the conclusion of the initial bidding process.
“We acknowledge that any change in ownership can be unsettling, and supporters will have questions. This is entirely understandable, especially considering the club's recent history.
“The decision to proceed with a preferred bidder has been made following extensive financial, legal, and forensic due diligence, supported by specialist advisors.
“This process has progressed significantly since the early stages and has included a detailed evaluation of funding sources, ownership structure, and governance.
“It is essential to clarify the process moving forward.
“Granting preferred bidder status does not signify that a change of ownership is finalized. Any proposed acquisition remains fully subject to the agreement of appropriate legal documentation and EFL approval, including the owners’ and directors’ test.
“The administrators will not complete a sale unless and until those conditions are fulfilled.
The EFL has informed the administrators that this review will be thorough and will not follow a predetermined timeline.
“This is both appropriate and expected, and we fully support that process.”
The season has been challenging for Wednesday and their supporters, with the club sitting at the bottom of the table.
They currently have a total of negative seven points after 25 games due to penalties incurred.
The club has managed only one league victory this season, alongside 16 defeats.
The Owls will return to action this weekend, hoping for a much-needed boost on the field.
High-flying Premier League team Brentford will visit Wednesday in the third round.
This competition is often celebrated for its magic, and the beleaguered Championship club would love nothing more than to experience that on Saturday afternoon.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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