Ex-Sheffield Wednesday Player Reveals Reasons Behind Departure

Oxford United’s Will Vaulks has shared why he opted to join the club instead of renewing his contract with Sheffield Wednesday.

The 30-year-old left Hillsborough this summer after agreeing to terms with the League One play-off champions and will start with his new team at the beginning of July. He earned the Player of the Season award from Wednesday fans, contributing three assists in 34 matches, helping the Owls avoid relegation from the Championship.

A full Wales international, Vaulks joined the South Yorkshire club from Cardiff City in July 2022, nearing 100 appearances over two years. This marked the first time he made fewer than 100 appearances for a club since leaving his hometown team, Tranmere Rovers, in 2013.

Vaulks is the first signing at Kassam Stadium as Oxford United prepares for their first season back in the second tier since 1999. Des Buckingham’s team defeated favourites Bolton Wanderers at Wembley to secure promotion alongside Derby County and Portsmouth.

Will Vaulks is an excellent addition to Oxford United’s roster. Bringing experience from Sheffield Wednesday’s relegation battle last season, he will be valuable if the U’s face similar challenges. Having previously helped Rotherham move from League One to the Championship, Vaulks can guide his new teammates through the transition.

Vaulks will help fill the gap left by James Henry’s departure after his contract ended. Joining a squad with talented midfielders like Cameron Brannagan and Ruben Rodrigues, Oxford United seems well-prepared for the upcoming season, though adding more depth could be beneficial for the demanding campaign ahead.