Paul Jones could be on his way out of Sheffield Wednesday this summer as his contract is up in the coming months and he’s surplus to requirements. The 33-year-old was brought in as cover for Joe Wildsmith ahead of the new season, but he’s found himself fourth in the goalkeeper pecking order when everyone is fit.
Jones joined on a free transfer from Fleetwood Town last summer, but he failed to make an appearance for Wednesday before the season was postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. As per Transfermarkt, Cameron Dawson (28 appearances), Joe Wildsmith (one appearance) and Keiren Westwood (14 appearances) have been preferred over the 33-year-old.
Jones was an unused substitute in Wednesday’s 2-0 win over Barnsley (August 10, 2019), EFL Cup win over Rotherham United (August 28), EFL Cup defeat to Everton (September 24), 1-0 win over Stoke City (October 22), 1-1 draw with Birmingham City (November 27), 3-1 win over Charlton Athletic (November 30), 2-1 win over Brentford (December 7), 1-1 draw with Derby County (December 12).
It’s hard to see Wednesday handing him a new deal given the lack of football, but Jones isn’t the only goalkeeper with an uncertain future. Westwood was frozen out of the first-team earlier in the season and may be sold this summer, so Garry Monk could be on the hunt for a replacement.
Vital Sheff Wed named three shot-stoppers who could offset Westwood’s loss next season – Adam Legzdins, Eldin Jakupovic, Rob Elliot – but it remains to be seen who they’ll sign.
