Sheffield Wednesday faced rejection from a League One name before securing the services of goalkeeping coach Sal Bibbo, according to the team’s manager.
Despite their challenging league position and off-field struggles, Sheffield Wednesday has successfully assembled a formidable backroom team, including recent additions like manager Danny Rohl, former England coach Chris Powell, and Sascha Lense.
Bibbo, the former Arsenal goalkeeping coach, is the latest addition to Rohl’s staff, chosen after the club explored other options, including Andrew Sparkes.
Reports suggest that Sheffield Wednesday approached Sparkes, the Reading assistant, for the goalkeeping coach role at Hillsborough. However, Bibbo ultimately filled the position, and Reading’s manager, Ruben Selles, disclosed that Sparkes had been given permission to speak with Wednesday but opted to stay with Reading, expressing commitment to the club.
Selles stated, ‘We gave him the freedom to speak with them, but he is committed to us and decided not to go through. He is happy with us.’ Sparkes, with a UEFA A License, boasts experience from his time with Southampton, New York Red Bulls, and Swansea City.
While Sparkes brings valuable experience, Bibbo’s extensive background, particularly working with top-level clubs and goalkeepers, makes him a significant addition to Rohl and Sheffield Wednesday’s backroom team.
Despite the promising staff, the challenge lies on the pitch, where Sheffield Wednesday is struggling to secure positive results. Currently nine points adrift at the bottom of the table, the team faces a daunting task to avoid relegation this season.
The next fixture against Birmingham City offers an opportunity for Sheffield Wednesday to secure points, given Birmingham’s recent winless streak under Wayne Rooney. However, both teams will see it as a must-win game. The match is scheduled to kick off at 3 pm at St Andrew’s tomorrow.”
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