DAGENHAM & Redbridge's opening day opponents in their maiden season in League One, which kicks off on August 7, have been served a winding-up order from HM Revenue and Customs over an unpaid tax bill.

Sheffield Wednesday will appear before the high court on August 11, four days after they are due to meet the Daggers at Hillsborough, over an outstanding PAYE balance amounting to £550,000.

However, the club remain confident the debt will be paid. A club spokesman said: “We have been involved in dialogue with HMRC for a number of weeks. As such, we are disappointed by their decision.

“Sheffield Wednesday would like to inform supporters their club is not about to be wound up.

“We understand that HMRC is taking a tougher line in general with football clubs, but feel their actions are disproportionate and will raise unnecessary speculation as to the financial situation of the club.”