The future of Sheffield Wednesday is looking brighter, and former goalkeeper Keiren Westwood is optimistic about the club's prospects. In an exclusive interview, Westwood expressed his hope for a successful takeover and a return to glory for the Owls. He believes that the recent takeover by US consortium Arise Capital Partners is a turning point for the club, and he's particularly interested in the potential return of Barry Bannan.
Westwood, a fan favorite during his 199 appearances for the club, understands the mixed emotions fans feel. He acknowledges the recent struggles and the desire for something positive to happen. The takeover, he believes, is a chance to rebuild and create a stable environment for the team.
"It's almost like you're waiting for something bad to happen!" Westwood exclaims. "Maybe that's just my own anxieties, but you're desperate for something good to happen because it's been so bad. Fingers crossed, but you don't want to count your chickens. You're half-waiting for bad news, hoping for smooth sailing!"
Westwood emphasizes the importance of good management and a solid structure. He believes that the new owners, Arise, are taking the right steps to assemble a team capable of a massive rebuild. However, he also highlights the challenges faced by the club in the past, suggesting that off-field issues have impacted the players' focus.
"I don't want to sound like I'm hammering anyone, but the cards have been stacked against those here, from the top down," Westwood notes. "You could see the cracks when we were playing. If everything is smooth off the pitch, everything on the pitch is manageable. But when meetings concern off-field issues, it gets overwhelming and affects the team."
When asked about Bannan, who left for Millwall in January, Westwood hints at a potential return. "Baz is a great lad and friend, and he's always been open about wanting to finish his career at Wednesday," he says. "I think he'd have an eye on that still!"
Westwood's optimism is infectious, and he believes that with the right management and a stable environment, Sheffield Wednesday can kick on towards a brighter future. The takeover, he argues, is a chance to create a new beginning and restore the club's former glory.
