Former Sheffield Wednesday full-back Jack Hunt has been spotted training with the Owls ahead of the new season.
The 34-year-old, who made almost 200 appearances for the club across two spells, is currently without a club after leaving Bristol Rovers earlier this summer.
Hunt, a key figure in Wednesday’s 2023 play-off triumph, has been back at Middlewood Road in recent days. However, it is understood that, at present, his involvement is purely to maintain fitness while he considers his options for the 2025/26 campaign.
Mutually Beneficial Arrangement
Wednesday’s squad is notably light on experienced professionals following a turbulent summer and the recent lifting of their transfer embargo. Hunt’s presence on the training pitch offers the club an extra senior voice, while giving the player access to top-level facilities as he prepares for his next move.
The right-back, who boasts nearly 300 Championship appearances, is renowned among Owls fans for scoring the decisive penalty in the shootout victory over Peterborough United during the 2023 play-off semi-final. His career has also included promotions with other clubs, making him a valuable source of know-how in a young group under new head coach Henrik Pedersen.
Other Training Stints
Before returning to Sheffield, Hunt had been working with newly promoted League One side Bradford City. However, a move to Valley Parade now appears unlikely, with the defender keeping his options open.
His departure from Bristol Rovers came after a season in which he played a supporting role in League One, but the experienced campaigner has made it clear he is not ready to hang up his boots.
Wednesday Still Seeking Reinforcements
The Owls remain in the market for new signings after finally being able to trade again. Recruitment has been slow following months of uncertainty under owner Dejphon Chansiri, but the removal of the embargo this week has given Pedersen the green light to strengthen.
While there is no indication Hunt will be offered a deal at this stage, Wednesday’s limited squad depth means the situation could change if circumstances align. For now, both parties appear content with the current arrangement.
Writer’s View
Jack Hunt’s return to training at Wednesday is a reminder of the value of familiarity and experience, especially for a squad that has been stripped of senior depth. Although there is no deal on the table, the move makes sense for both sides — Hunt gets the sharpness he needs to secure his next contract, while the Owls benefit from a seasoned professional around their younger players.
If reinforcements are slow to arrive, it would not be a surprise to see Wednesday explore the possibility of reuniting with a defender who knows Hillsborough inside out.
