Sheffield Wednesday fans have been angered by the owner’s congratulations to rivals United

Sheffield Wednesday fans have reacted furiously after the club’s boss wished bitter rivals Sheffield United “warm congratulations” on their promotion to the Premier League.

The Championship club tweeted a statement from Thai businessman Dejphon Chansiri, saying: “We may be rivals but we are friends in the same city which holds such a unique tradition in the world of football.

“Premier League recognition can only benefit Sheffield and we wish United well, while promising our loyal supporters that we will do everything we can to ensure that Wednesday is just as successful this time next year.”

The act of sportsmanship was not received well by several Owls supporters who took to Twitter to express their disgust.

One, called Dec, replied: “Are you doing refunds for season tickets again next season? Asking for me.”

Another, named Andrew, replied: “Don’t think he understands.”

But not all fans were offended by the gesture. Marytn Birch described the message as a “classy statement”, while Martin West tweeted: “I have to admit he’s a much better man than me for doing this, no way to congratulate him.”

The Blades will return to the Premier League for the first time since the 2006-07 season, following two promotions in three years under manager Chris Wilder.

They are new to the second tier on Wednesday after a revival under Steve Bruce almost saw them challenge for a play-off spot.

Chansiri took control of the club in 2015, initially aiming for Premier League football in the first two years.