Sheffield Wednesday mascot releases statement to explain the ‘real toll’ staff are facing

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The person behind the Sheffield Wednesday mascot has released a statement on social media in which he talks about life at Hillsborough.

Wednesday have been placed under another embargo as the continued calls for Dejphon Chansiri to sell the club rumble on.

Delayed payments, low attendances and mass protests have dominated the headlines, and now a member of staff has come forward to explain what it’s really like.

• READ MORE: EFL accused of double standards as Sheffield Wednesday fiasco causes Championship figurehead to hit out

Sheffield Wednesday mascot speaks out against the club

Barney Owl is always at home games, but on Saturday, those who went noticed that he was holding a black and yellow scarf during the game against Queens Park Rangers.

Black and yellow are the colours being used by the fans to protest and in a surprise thread on X, the mascot gave an honest reflection of what life has been like.

He said: “I’m a fan first, and an employee second. This is my 20th season working for the club I love, starting when I was 18 years old. I stand with the fans. Without them, there is no Sheffield Wednesday. I’m match-day staff only, paid the same as stewards. I’ve had no pay issues personally (so far), but I don’t do this for the money — I do it for the fans and for the badge.

“Since this isn’t my main job, I’m in a position where I can speak out — many others aren’t. Please continue to show empathy and respect for ALL staff who can’t. It’s been difficult watching dedicated colleagues grow demoralised by the silence — the lack of clear communication about their pay, roles, and the club’s future is taking a real toll.

“Like many others, I believe a change in ownership is the only way to safeguard the long-term future of the club — and the immediate short-term stability of the staff who work here. As it says in my bio: these are my views, not those of Sheffield Wednesday Football Club. My views and actions are independent of the club and any supporters’ groups or trusts. Up the Owls.”

Sheffield Wednesday fans continue to travel away from home

While many opt against going to Hillsborough so that they don’t fill the pockets of Chansiri, they still travel in their thousands away from home.

Wednesday have protested on the road too, with opposition supporters showing their support to the Owls.

A midweek trip to Birmingham City awaits and the away end will be packed out with those ready to back the XI that step out onto the pitch.