4-5-1, with Fletcher or Hooper: How Sheffield Wednesday could line up against Huddersfield Town

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Carlos Carvalhal takes his Wednesday side to the Championship leaders on Sunday lunchtime.

Sheffield Wednesday travel to Championship leaders Huddersfield Town on Sunday lunchtime looking to get back to winning ways.

The defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion was far from ideal, but at the same time it wasn’t the end of the world.

And the two week break for internationals has at least given the Owls time to reflect, and for some of their players; recover, potentially leaving head coach Carlos Carvalhal with a wealth of options at his disposal.

But how might his side line up in West Yorkshire?

Goalkeeper and defenders:

Keiren Westwood’s fitness will perhaps be Wednesday’s biggest concern, with the Irishman having been forced off against Brighton and missing his country’s recent victories. Cameron Dawson should again be on stand-by, with Joe Wildsmith also sidelined.

These sorts of games – in which some defending is likely to be required – tend to see Liam Palmer preferred to Jack Hunt, who may sit out against his old side. Tom Lees is a near-cert to start in the middle, with Sam Hutchinson his likely partner if fit, although Glenn Loovens could again take the latter’s place.

Daniel Pudil should continue at left full-back, with Adam Reach, or perhaps even Urby Emanuelson, ready to step in if not.

Midfielders:

Kieran Lee and Barry Bannan are certain starters in the middle, with David Jones likely to sit just behind the pair to prevent them from becoming overrun. Almen Abdi could come in instead, although Carvalhal is likely to favour the safer, more defensive option of Jones.

Makeshift left-back Reach could get another go on the wing, in place of Ross Wallace, with Fernando Forestieri – the match-winner at Huddersfield in April – likely to occupy a deeper role than usual.

Striker:

Carvalhal’s main dilemma will be who to pick up front, with 4-4-2 perhaps too much of a risk at the home of the league leaders. Gary Hooper scored last time out, although Steven Fletcher is arguably the better of the two in isolation and favourite to get the nod.