Sheffield Wednesday hero and ex-Chelsea prospect Sam Hutchinson released by AFC Wimbledon
Sheffield Wednesday hero Sam Hutchinson released by AFC Wimbledon ahead of temporary Hillsborough return
Sam Hutchinson will be returning to Sheffield Wednesday’s Hillsborough home for a charity match as a free agent after being released by AFC Wimbledon.
The 36-year-old is a revered figure in S6 having amassed 207 appearances across three spells with the Owls. He first joined the club on loan from Chelsea in 2014, later penning a permanent deal and representing the club until 2020.
He returned in 2021 after a spell in Cyprus, spending another 18 months with Wednesday before moving on to Reading. The defensive midfielder was snapped up by Wimbledon in 2024 and after 24 outings, is moving on.
Sam Hutchinson’s exit confirmed
The club’s director of football Craig Cope said: "Firstly, I would like to extend our gratitude to the players and families departing the club this summer. They have all played a crucial role in the club’s progress over the past few seasons and we wish them well for the future.
"Promotion winners Josh Kelly and Sam Hutchinson depart after both making significant impacts to the club. Josh played a key role in the 12-game unbeaten run which set us up for a play-off finish prior to our promotion.
"Sam came in and played a pivotal role in getting us over the line, not only with that iconic goal at Grimsby but his performances leading up to that.”
Return to Hillsborough
It remains to be seen what the future holds for Hutchinson, who turns 37 in August and may decide his playing days are over.
However, he will pulling his boots on at Hillsborough on Saturday (May 9. He will be reuniting with an array of former teammates - as well as ex-boss Carlos Carvalhal - for a charity match against supporters and stakeholders.