Gary Christie
Predicted Sheffield Wednesday Lineup To Face Mansfield Town In Pre-Season Friendly
Saturday sees the Owls continue their pre-season preparations with a game against League Two side Mansfield Town.
Carlos Carvahal oversaw a good year for Wednesday last time around, with the Yorkshire side narrowly missing out on promotion via the play-offs and they are looking to use their experience in what looks a more open Championship race this time around.
A good preparation cannot be underestimated though and a confidence-boosting big win here would go a long way towards helping the Owls make a fast start in the league. Carvahal may go with his usual 4-4-2 employing the following XI:
GK – Kieren Westwood
The Republic of Ireland international stopper quietly goes about his business and looks to have been retained for the upcoming season.
RB – Jack Hunt
The 26-year-old has been the subject of some interest from Premier League clubs and it’s easy to see why. Wednesday have this far resisted the temptation to sell him though and he could remain a vital cog in their promotion machine.
CB – Tom Leeds
Another English defender and one who has attracted attention from the top division. But right now he seems comfortable where he is and again, he’ll be crucial if Sheff Wed are to get the job done this season.
CB – Glenn Loovens
The Dutchman’s experience will continue to stand the Owls in good stead, even in pre-season.
LB – Daniel Pudil
The Czech international is solid enough at Championship level and looks like starting the summer as first choice left-back.
RW – Ross Wallace
Others will challenge this position and Wallace isn’t too flashy, but Carvahal clearly appreciates the quality of balls into the box Wallace can produce, which are vital when playing with a front two. Summer signing George Boyd will be looking for game time though and possibly in this position.
CM – Kieren Lee
Formed a very good working relationship with Bannan last season and should continue this during the summer.
CM – Barry Bannan
Again, quality through balls are crucial with a front two and Bannan can produce these.
LW – George Boyd
Adam Reach was the first choice here last season and Boyd likes to play down the right. However, he may be given a start on this side to see what he can do in a traditional 4-4-2.
ST – Fernando Forestieri
Though I’d back Winnall to take this place in the team, now that he has left training citing personal reasons, I assume Fernando Forestieri will take his place. Wednesday are ridiculously well-off for strikers, with Steven Fletcher and Gary Hooper also looking for game time.
ST – Jordan Rhodes
What an enigma this boy is. Eventually, it seems we can all agree that he’s more Championship than Premier League and he’s managed yet another big money move here and so will be given the chance to impress.
