Irvine hopes Owls' cash injection will lead to squad strengthening

Irvine is keen to sign a new centre-back on loan with Mark Beevers ruled out for two months by an ankle injury and Darren Purse only one booking away from suspension.

But the Football League's embargo will only be lifted once the Owls pay off an outstanding 600,000 tax bill – and that still hinges on the delivery of a 2m cash injection from prospective new owners, who are believed to be linked to an oilfield company.

Irvine said: "If the money is in the bank and we don't have a transfer embargo in place, I would like to strengthen. I have been looking for a centre-half for ages but it has not been possible. As yet, nothing has changed – but I would expect to be told if the embargo is lifted.

"The chairman (Howard Wilkinson) is aware of the situation and, if the embargo is lifted, I am sure we will address it but we need to have the money in the bank."

A club spokesman declined to comment on when the initial 2m investment, announced on Friday, would be received.

The final part of the Yorkshire Post's series on an acrimonious year in the Owls' boardroom concludes today with details of an explosive confrontation between chairman Lee Strafford and finance director Bob Grierson.

After months of tension over an increasingly fraught financial situation, Grierson launched an outspoken attack on Strafford's record – and drew an equally strong response from the then chairman.

Recorded minutes reveal Strafford declaring the board "broken" as a result and he went on to resign shortly after Wednesday were relegated.

Last night, the former chairman said: "On a personal level I have huge regrets for ever getting involved, but as a fan I remain proud of a number of achievements including the partnership with the Sheffield Children's Hospital, improved facilities and club infrastructure, better community and fan engagement and Wednesday's success in being chosen as a potential World Cup venue."

He added: "Ultimately there is no getting away from the fact that our club was relegated and I take my share of the responsibility relating to that outcome.

"It's encouraging to see investment may now be delivered but those who remain on the board, bar Howard Wilkinson, still haven't taken responsibility for their actions, all of which resulted in the club facing the situation it has over recent months.

"I don't believe real change at Hillsborough will be possible until they've gone."

Wednesday's board has declined to comment on the contents of the minutes and instead has issued a statement which said: "The club will not be offering any comment on the specifics of board minutes as described by the Yorkshire Post. To do so will not be in keeping with what the whole board believe to be the best practice for any company – namely that discussions within the boardroom must remain private.

"The board's focus is on securing the necessary investment that our club needs. Such investment will draw a line under the problems and politics of the past, and allow all Wednesday fans to contemplate a brighter future."

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