Sheffield Wednesday are low on bodies ahead of their visit to Sheffield United.
Sheffield Wednesday’s injury crisis looks set to continue throughout January, with as many as eight Owls players likely to miss Friday’s Steel City derby against Sheffield United.
New Wednesday manager Jos Luhukay called up five Under-23 players for Monday’s training session at Hillsborough, although two of those – Connor O’Grady and Jack Stobbs – have already played for the seniors.
The pair are surely in contention to make Wednesday’s 18 at Bramall Lane, but which other Owls youngsters could feature unexpectedly against the Blades?
Here’s three potential derby debutants…
Ash Baker
Signed from Cardiff City’s second string this time last year, Baker has been named on the bench in three of Wednesday’s last five fixtures without coming on. However, should anything happen to Liam Palmer, Glenn Loovens or Frederico Venancio before Friday, the Welshman could find himself thrown into Luhukay’s side – although Jack Hunt may return.
Sean Clare
Wednesday have, arguably, been crying out for a player like Clare these past few months. However, the attacking midfielder, who possesses pace, skill and technical ability in abundance, has been on loan to Gillingham instead. The Owls could do worse than to take inspiration from David Brooks’ performance against them in September’s derby and blood their own unknown quantity on Friday (although Brooks had appeared for the Blades before then).
Matt Penney
Although an unlikely starter, given that both Morgan Fox and Daniel Pudil should be fit to play, Penney could be first reserve if either of those drop out unexpectedly. The left-back, who signed a one-year contract extension last week, would make for an interesting wildcard, given his prowess from long distance, as well as set pieces.
Which Sheffield Wednesday talents – if any – should Luhukay call upon against Sheffield United?
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