Is Ex-Poker Player Bord the Top Choice for Sheff Wed Bidder?

Sheffield Wednesday has had a challenging start to their Championship season, winning just one game thus far. The club is now on the verge of a potential takeover by former professional poker player James Bord, who has been chosen as the preferred bidder. This development follows the Owls entering administration in October, marking the end of a decade-long ownership under Dejphon Chansiri.

Last updated: 27 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Sheffield Wednesday is navigating a precarious situation as they sit bottom of the Championship table, facing a -9 points deduction due to financial penalties. The announcement that James Bord has been selected as the preferred bidder for the club signals a significant shift, potentially bringing fresh investment and a new direction. The Owls' administrators confirmed the bid after extensive due diligence, although the specifics of Bord's consortium remain unclear. The club's future hinges on the completion of this takeover and Bord's ability to meet the English Football League's (EFL) Owners and Directors' test, which could present challenges due to his previous ties to the gambling industry.

Key takeaways

James Bord has been named the preferred bidder for Sheffield Wednesday, currently in administration.
The club has suffered a -9 points deduction, placing them at the bottom of the Championship.
Bord has experience in football ownership and analytics, involving clubs in various leagues.
The bid must pass the EFL's Owners and Directors' test, which may face scrutiny.
Mixed reactions from fans highlight concerns and hopes surrounding the potential takeover.

Timeline: how we got here

The pathway to James Bord's bid spans several key dates and events:

October 2023: Sheffield Wednesday enters administration, resulting in a -9 points deduction.
21 November 2023: Completion of the first stage of the takeover process, with around 10 parties remaining in the running.
27 October 2023: Announcement of James Bord as the preferred bidder after extensive due diligence by the club's administrators.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The primary development is the confirmation that James Bord is the preferred bidder for Sheffield Wednesday. This comes amidst ongoing challenges for the club, which has struggled on the pitch and faced significant financial hurdles. The future of the club is now closely tied to Bord's proposed plans, which remain largely undisclosed.

What was already established

Prior to Bord's bid, Sheffield Wednesday had been in a dire financial situation, leading to administration and significant point deductions. The club's past ownership under Dejphon Chansiri has faced criticism, and many fans were eager for a change. Bord's background in sports analytics and previous involvement with other clubs may provide a new strategic approach, although his previous consulting role at Sheffield United was met with mixed reviews.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The ongoing turmoil at Sheffield Wednesday has implications for local fans and the community. The club’s performance and stability are crucial for supporters, many of whom rely on matchday income and local business partnerships. A successful takeover could restore hope and excitement, while further mismanagement may deepen disenchantment.

Businesses and jobs

For local businesses, particularly those relying on matchday foot traffic, the uncertainty surrounding the club's ownership affects revenue prospects. Additionally, the club must navigate job security for employees, both on and off the pitch, as changes in leadership may lead to restructuring.

Policy and regulation

The EFL's Owners and Directors' test will play a pivotal role in determining the legitimacy of Bord's bid. This regulatory framework is designed to ensure that club owners are financially stable and fit to run a football club. Any complications arising from Bord's past connections to the gambling industry could raise eyebrows, potentially complicating the approval process.

Numbers that matter

-9 points: Current points deduction for Sheffield Wednesday due to administration.
1: Number of Championship games won by Sheffield Wednesday this season.
10: Years under previous ownership by Dejphon Chansiri before administration.
£3.18 million: Amount won by James Bord on the poker circuit, showcasing his financial acumen.
3: Number of clubs currently owned or invested in by Bord and his partners.

Definitions and jargon buster

Administration: A legal process where a company is protected from creditors while it attempts to restructure its debts.
EFL: English Football League, the governing body for professional football leagues in England.
Owners and Directors' test: A set of criteria that potential club owners must meet to ensure they are fit and proper to manage a football club.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the short term, Sheffield Wednesday fans will be watching closely for news regarding the completion of Bord's takeover and any immediate changes in club management or strategy. The upcoming weeks could bring critical updates that affect the club's status.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Should the takeover go through, Bord will need to implement a strategic plan to address the club's performance issues and financial stability. Fans will be looking for a clear vision that includes recruitment strategies and long-term goals for the club's revival.

Signals to watch

Updates on the EFL's decision regarding Bord's bid.
Announcement of any new management or coaching appointments.
Changes in recruitment policies or player signings as the January transfer window approaches.

Practical guidance

Do

Stay informed on the latest developments regarding the takeover and club management.
Engage with community discussions to understand the broader implications of ownership changes.
Support local businesses that benefit from matchday traffic.

Don’t

Assume the takeover will resolve all issues immediately; changes take time.
Dismiss the importance of fan engagement in the club’s future.
Ignore the potential risks associated with Bord's past connections to gambling.

Checklist

Confirm your season ticket status and matchday plans.
Follow club announcements on official channels for accurate information.
Engage in discussions with fellow fans about the future direction of the club.
Research Bord's previous ventures to assess potential impacts on the club.
Monitor the EFL's response to the takeover bid.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the news of a preferred bidder is generally positive, there are several uncertainties surrounding Bord's bid. His previous connections to gambling may raise concerns during the EFL's assessment. Additionally, the effectiveness of his proposed strategies remains to be seen, particularly in a club that has struggled both on the pitch and financially. Fans are urged to remain cautiously optimistic as the situation develops.

Bottom line

The potential takeover of Sheffield Wednesday by James Bord represents a crucial juncture for the club. With performance issues and financial uncertainty, the new leadership must navigate a complex landscape to restore the club's fortunes. As developments unfold, both supporters and stakeholders will be eager to see how Bord's analytical approach might reshape the Owls and set a course for recovery.

FAQs

Who is James Bord?

James Bord is a former professional poker player and businessman, selected as the preferred bidder for Sheffield Wednesday, indicating a potential new ownership for the troubled club.

What does entering administration mean for Sheffield Wednesday?

Entering administration means that Sheffield Wednesday is protected from creditors while attempting to restructure its debts, though it results in significant penalties like point deductions.

What challenges does Bord face with his bid?

Bord must pass the EFL's Owners and Directors' test, which may be complicated by his past involvement in the gambling industry and the need to demonstrate financial stability.