Predicted Sheffield Wednesday line-up to face Derby in the Championship
Sheffield Wednesday will be aiming to end their five-game winless streak when they face Derby County at the Hillsborough stadium this Saturday.
Jos Luhukay’s men are in a poor vein of form as they are struggling to score, defend and control games in the middle of the park.
The only thing that could revitalise the mood is a win this weekend. They are up against a tough Derby side who are looking to get back on track after a damaging home defeat at the hands of Aston Villa.
Team News
Sam Winnall has a hamstring problem and will be out until December. Gary Hooper and Kieran Lee are long-term absentees, while Almen Abdi is back in training. Fernando Forestieri is recovering well but the Saturday game might come too early for him.
Probable Sheffield Wednesday XI
Formation: 3-4-1-2
Manager: Jos Luhukay
Cameron Dawson (GK)
Dawson deserved a clean sheet last time around. He is one of Wednesday’s best players this season.
Liam Palmer (RWB)
Baker got the opportunity to shine against Sheffield United but wasn’t effective. We may Palmer start at right wing-back.
Michael Hector (CB)
The Englishman has been a decent addition to the team and a change to a back-three has worked.
Tom Lees (RCB)
The captain seems to perform better in a back-three formation, hence, Luhukay should continue with that.
Jordan Thorniley (LCB)
Thorniley looks better in a back-three and should start against Derby.
Matt Penney (LWB)
Penney remains a viable option for the Owls at left wing-back and the youngster is doing a decent job.
Joey Pelupessy (CDM)
The Dutchman did well in the derby last time around in a slightly deeper midfield role. Expect him to keep his place.
Barry Bannan (CM)
If Wednesday are to pick up three points this Saturday, they should hope Bannan has a good game.
Adam Reach (CAM)
Sheffield United did their homework on Reach as they closed him down at every given opportunity. It is up to the Englishman to come prepared with an answer if Derby players do the same.
Steven Fletcher (ST)
The experienced striker had to feed off scraps a fortnight ago. Wednesday would be hoping he gets on the scoresheet this Saturday.
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Marco Matias (ST)
Came back from injury in the last game and looked good in his cameo appearance. Expect him to lead the line alongside Fletcher.
