Sheffield Wednesday have several concerns to address ahead of the 2025/26 Championship season, but one has been regarded as make-or-break.
One year ago, optimism filled the air in S6 as Sheffield Wednesday prepared for a Championship season under the stewardship of Danny Rohl, but it is a completely different feeling now.
There is no certainty whether Rohl will be Sheffield Wednesday manager by the time that the Owls kick off their Championship campaign away at Leicester City, and even the landscape of the squad could drastically change in the fortnight leading up to the clash.
Already this summer, we have seen several players move on from Hillsborough Stadium – notably Djeidi Gassama and Anthony Musaba have been sold for cut-price deals, whilst Josh Windass and Michael Smith were let go on free deals.
A plethora of issues face Sheffield Wednesday owner Dejphon Chansiri, who has gone silent in recent weeks, along with the club. However, one concern has been regarded as of high importance to be sorted before the season gets underway.
Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty ImagesSheffield Wednesday told to secure future of Barry Bannan and Callum Paterson
Ahead of the 2025/26 Championship season, Sheffield Wednesday are yet to tie down the futures of both Barry Bannan and Callum Paterson.
The pair of former Scottish internationals played important roles in Sheffield Wednesday notching a respectable 12th-placed finish last season, and will be integral to Danny Rohl’s plans this season.
In particular, all Sheffield Wednesday supporters will be keen to see Bannan’s future secured this season after the years he has committed to the football club.
Discussing the future of both Bannan and Paterson, Dom Howson wrote on X about what they offer to the side, especially in this time of turmoil.
“It’s hugely important for Sheffield Wednesday to keep Barry Bannan and Callum Paterson heading into next season.
“Two big characters in the dressing room with bags of experience. There are going to be some tough times ahead but BB and CP can lift spirits and help guide the younger players.”
It’s hugely important for #SWFC to keep Barry Bannan and Callum Paterson heading into next season. Two big characters in the dressing room with bags of experience. There are going to be some tough times ahead but BB and CP can lift spirits and help guide the younger players. 🦉⚽️ pic.twitter.com/4qGJgDqgSY
— Dom Howson (@domhowson) July 26, 2025
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Barry Bannan has already shown why securing his future is vital
It is clear that securing Barry Bannan’s future at the club is paramount, and that is not just for sentimental reasons.
Bannan has made it clear that he wishes to stay at Sheffield Wednesday, and that sort of commitment to the club is crucial in such a drastic situation.
Sheffield Wednesday need leaders this season, especially amid the exile of many first-teamers. Bannan and Callum Paterson can and would provide that, which could then help the crop of youngsters live up to the level of the Championship.