'I really hope' - Pete Shuttleworth issues heartfelt farewell message after Sheffield Wednesday exit
Pete Shuttleworth has issued a statement following his Sheffield Wednesday departure
Pete Shuttleworth has described Sheffield Wednesday as a “truly special place to work” following confirmation of his Hillsborough exit.
The 47-year-old formed part of Henrik Pedersen’s coaching team in S6 and was a trusted voice and ear for the Dane.
Pedersen was recently relieved of his duties and Shuttleworth has not joined the new team assembled by his successor Dave Challinor.
Wednesday’s new boss has retained Matt Hamshaw and Darryl Flahavan, and has been joined by Clint Hill and Antony Sweeney.
Pete Shuttleworth bids farewell
Posting on Instagram, Shuttleworth said: “So, my time at Sheffield Wednesday has come to an end... It’s happened much sooner than I had hoped, but this is elite sport and the world we are working in.
“Firstly, I would like to thank Henrik for bringing me in and giving me the opportunity to work at a club like Sheffield Wednesday. It’s a truly special place to work… To the staff, who I’ve formed really good relationships with, I know that I now have many friendships that will last beyond this last year.
“And to the players - thank you to all who I have worked with. You are a brilliant set of footballers, but also a great set of lads - and I really hope you go on and get promoted this season. A special thank you for all the messages, these are all saved and will be read over and over and help me bounce back from the disappointment.
“I’m not proud of the results over the last year, they in the circumstances where made somewhat irrelevant. What I am proud of, though, is that we fought and worked so hard in Sheffield Wednesday’s lowest point, we kept the club competing.
“Even as everything was ripping apart, we managed to keep the club, the staff and players together. We competed against all the odds and no one ever downed tools or took their foot off the gas. It’s a testament to everyone who was there at the club and something that should not be forgotten as time passes.
“The fan connection through these times has shown that they appreciated how we kept it afloat and they understood the challenge we faced. Thanks for all the positive messages during these times.
“And then to witness the start of the new ownership and how they have invested and changed the whole dynamic of the club for the better, it’s been amazing to see.
“The day against West Brom was one of my fondest football memories and it started this new era which I have no doubt will be successful…
“My family will never let me forget Wednesday – especially because the shirts are all around the house! - and I am honoured that I got to experience this football club and all that it stands for. Good luck to everyone for the future.”