Sheffield Wednesday can extend their lead over seventh place with a win against the Blues at Hillsborough.
Sheffield Wednesday will move five points clear of seventh place with a win against Birmingham City on Friday.
The Owls continue to have doubts over Tom Lees and Gary Hooper, after the defender and striker sat out last week’s win at Wigan, but are boosted by the return from suspension of star man Sam Hutchinson.
The latter is sure to return, but where?
Unpopular pair won’t feature at Hillsborough on Friday
Here’s how we at HITC expect Carlos Carvalhal’s side to look…
Goalkeeper: Keiren Westwood
Defenders: Jack Hunt, Vincent Sasso, Glenn Loovens, Daniel Pudil
Consistency is key at this stage in the season, so expect few changes at the back unless Lees is passed fit. Alternatively, Morgan Fox could feature for his home debut, in place of Pudil.
Midfielders: Ross Wallace, Sam Hutchinson, Barry Bannan, Adam Reach
Hutchinson should return to the position from which he exudes the most influence, which could be the Owls’ only change. It’s difficult to imagine either winger being dropped, despite pressure from Callum McManaman.
Forwards: Fernando Forestieri, Jordan Rhodes
We suspect this is Carvalhal’s preferred pairing, at least until Hooper and Steven Fletcher (suspension) return to contention. Sam Winnall is likely feature, though not from the start.
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How should Sheffield Wednesday set up against the Blues?
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