"I speak to Baz quite a lot" - Exclusive: Sheffield Wednesday urged to take Barry Bannan action | OneFootball

Lee Hendrie has urged the Owls hierarchy to give Barry Bannan a new deal at the end of the season

Sheffield Wednesday captain Barry Bannan has continued to be a backbone for the Owls in the 24/25 season, despite his accumulating years.

The 35-year-old midfielder has made as many appearances so far in the Championship season, in which the Hillsborough outfit find themselves in 12th position after 38 games, six points adrift of the play-off places.

As the season starts to draw to its conclusion, inevitable discussions have arisen over contracts expiring in the summer.

For Wednesday, the uncertainty is annual, with the club traditionally favouring short-term deals and single year extensions.

Such a scenario has impacted Bannan, whose deal will expire at the season’s end.

Lee Hendrie: Barry Bannan is still a “key factor” for Sheffield Wednesday side

In light of debates over whether Bannan’s contract should be renewed despite his 35 years, Football League World spoke exclusively with pundit Lee Hendrie on whether or not Sheffield Wednesday should offer him a new deal.

“On Barry Bannan - yeah I know he’s 35 and contract’s up at the end of the season - but I think Sheffield Wednesday should renew his contract in my eyes.” Hendrie told FLW.

“To be quite honest, I think his experience and what he’s done captaining the side, he’s been a real key factor for them.”

“I think - he’s still fit, he keeps himself healthy and fit - I speak to Baz quite a lot so you know he will keep going as long as he can.”

“He’s got great football abilities, he’s good on the football, so I think if he’s got young players in and around him, that will always help but the position he plays - I think they should offer him a new contract, he’s proved he can still maintain that level in the Championship.”

Letting Barry Bannan go would be an unnecessary gamble for Sheffield Wednesday

Sheffield Wednesday stand at a crossroads, with Barry Bannan’s future a key decision in a summer of inevitable change.

While his age naturally raises questions about a new deal, his enduring influence on and off the pitch is undeniable. His leadership, technical ability, and commitment to the club have remained constants through years of turbulence.

Wednesday’s reliance on Bannan remains clear - no ready-made successor has emerged, and his performances continue to justify a place in the squad.

A short-term extension, allowing for a phased transition, appears to be the logical course of action. Letting him go without a clear plan would be a gamble that Wednesday can ill afford.

With uncertainty surrounding both the playing squad and Danny Röhl’s future, continuity is crucial. Bannan offers exactly that. If Wednesday are to move forward in a sustainable manner, keeping their captain in the fold - while preparing for life beyond him - should be a priority.

The ball is now in the club’s court.