Sheffield Wednesday’s two main goalscorers from last season have left on free agent terms
Josh Windass and Michael Smith combined to score and assist 39 goals for Wednesday last season, serving as the Owls’ offensive focal point for much of the season. However, both have formally departed the club after serving notice periods in the aftermath of the club’s repeated failure to pay wages on time.
Wednesday confirmed the news on Thursday evening, describing the termination of the two contracts as’mutual consent’. The pair are two of several first-team players who have given their notice, with The Star aware of another four, and more players understood to have sought legal advice on prospective contract terminations.
It is understood that Owls players received their late wage cheques for May and June earlier this week. Correspondence from the club to the players indicated Wednesday intended to appeal or fight any decision to submit to a termination process.
The two exits follow those of fellow strikers Anthony Musaba and Djeidi Gassama to Samsunspor and Rangers, respectively, leaving Wednesday with a very lean roster heading into a new season that begins in a little over three weeks. Despite having paid its players and HMRC debts, the cash-strapped club is nevertheless subject to recruitment restrictions due to its failure to meet financial responsibilities.
A statement read: “The Owls can confirm that Michael Smith and Josh Windass’ current contracts have been terminated by mutual consent. Both players depart Hillsborough with immediate effect. “Smith has made 127 appearances for the Owls, scoring 33 goals, since signing in June 2022.”
Windass made 182 games and scored 53 goals since joining Wednesday on loan in January 2020. Sheffield Wednesday expresses gratitude to Michael and Josh for their contributions and wishes them well in the future.
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