Ex-Poker Player Bord Emerges as Preferred Bidder for Sheffield Wednesday In a surprising turn of events, former professional poker player James Bord has been selected as the preferred bidder to take over ownership of English football club Sheffield Wednesday, BBC Sport has confirmed. The news marks a significant shift in the ownership structure of the Championship side, as they look to navigate a challenging period both on and off the pitch. Bord, whose background is primarily in the high-stakes world of professional poker, has now entered the fray to potentially become the new custodian of the historic club. His interest in Sheffield Wednesday signals a departure from his previous career, as he seeks to make his mark in the world of football ownership. The decision to select Bord as the preferred bidder comes after a prolonged period of uncertainty surrounding the club's future. Sheffield Wednesday have endured a tumultuous few years, with financial struggles and underwhelming performances on the field leading to growing frustration among the club's loyal fan base. Bord's potential acquisition of the club represents an opportunity for a fresh start, as the Owls look to chart a new course and return to the upper echelons of the Championship. The former poker player will now have the chance to present his vision and plans for the club, as he aims to convince the current owners and the football authorities that he is the right person to take Sheffield Wednesday forward. The move also raises intriguing questions about Bord's qualifications and approach to running a professional football club. As a newcomer to the sport's administrative side, he will need to demonstrate a deep understanding of the game's nuances and the ability to navigate the complex web of regulations and stakeholder interests that come with owning a club in the English football pyramid. Bord's background in the high-stakes world of professional poker, where calculated risks and strategic decision-making are paramount, may provide him with some valuable transferable skills. However, the transition from the poker table to the boardroom of a football club is a significant one, and Bord will need to prove that he has the necessary expertise and vision to succeed in this new environment. One of the key challenges Bord will face is garnering the support and trust of the Sheffield Wednesday faithful. Fans have been through a tumultuous period in recent years, and they will be eager to see a clear and coherent plan for the club's future. Bord will need to engage with the supporters, understand their concerns, and demonstrate a genuine commitment to the club's long-term success. Another crucial aspect will be Bord's ability to assemble a strong management team and technical staff to oversee the day-to-day operations of the club. Football is a complex and rapidly evolving industry, and the new owner will need to surround himself with experienced and knowledgeable individuals who can guide the club through the challenges ahead. Ultimately, the success of Bord's potential tenure as the owner of Sheffield Wednesday will be determined by his ability to stabilize the club's finances, implement a coherent long-term strategy, and foster a positive relationship with the fans and the local community. The road ahead may not be an easy one, but the opportunity to revive a historic club like the Owls is undoubtedly an enticing prospect for the former poker player. As the process of due diligence and negotiations continues, the football world will be watching closely to see how this unexpected bid for Sheffield Wednesday unfolds. It's a story that promises to captivate and intrigue, as a new chapter in the club's history potentially begins to take shape.