Sheffield Wednesday have left the door open for Barry Bannan to return to the club following his transfer to Millwall.

The Owls agreed to terms with their Championship rivals, and the midfielder will leave the club after more than a decade.

The 36-year-old has appeared in all 28 league games this season, and many anticipated him to finish his career at Hillsborough.

However, he has signed an 18-month contract with the Lions despite major financial difficulties for the Yorkshire club.

Gary Rowett will be hoping that the veteran Bannan can have an early impact at the Den, as the team aims for a top six finish in the second level.

Sheffield Wednesday opens door for Barry Bannan’s homecoming

Sheffield Wednesday have confirmed Bannan’s departure after more than ten years with the club, including a stint as first-team captain, but have left the door open for a potential return.

The Owls have wished him the best of luck in his future endeavors, with the midfielder leaving Hillsborough as a fan favorite for his contributions to the team since coming in 2015.

“Given the club’s current position in Administration, the Administrators are unable to provide the assurances that Barry was understandably seeking,” the club stated on its official website.

“Similarly, the selected bidder was unable to make any enforceable obligations to Barry until the regulatory procedure, which is still ongoing, was finished and ownership formally changed.

“Barry leaves Sheffield Wednesday as one of the club’s modern greats, an inspiring figure on both sides of the white line.

“Throughout promotion campaigns, relegation battles, and seasons of tremendous adversity, his dedication, professionalism, and enthusiasm for Sheffield Wednesday have never wavered.

“He departs with the deepest respect and gratitude of everyone at Hillsborough, and we all hope he returns to Sheffield Wednesday in some capacity in the future.”

Sheffield Wednesday remains in administration as the club seeks EFL approval for James Bord’s proposal.

On December 24, the bid was listed as the preferred option for purchasing the Championship side, but the league has yet to ratify it.

The Yorkshire club is almost certainly relegated this season, since they are currently at the bottom of the standings and 37 points from safety.

Next up for Sheffield Wednesday will be a home clash against Wrexham on 31 January in a 12.30pm kick-off.

Barry Bannan’s departure marks the end of an era.

Bannan is a hugely popular figure at Sheffield Wednesday, and his departure is a significant blow to the first team.

Hillsborough’s financial woes over the last 12 months have decimated the club, leaving them with very few experienced players like the 36-year-old.

Pedersen’s side will continue to struggle for results between now and May, which is a terrible time for fans.

But there is no doubt that Bannan will return to the club, and he will be warmly greeted, and 14 February has now been marked on the calendar as the date Millwall will next visit Hillsborough for a league meeting.