Jos Luhukay ponders Sheffield Wednesday changes

Manager Jos Luhukay is pondering making changes to his Owls starting line-up for their Championship duel with Aston Villa as he bids to shock his team back into life.
By The Newsroom
Published 20th Sep 2018, 16:46 BST
Updated 20th Sep 2018, 16:52 BST
Sheffield Wednesday boss Jos LuhukaySheffield Wednesday boss Jos Luhukay
Sheffield Wednesday boss Jos Luhukay

Wednesday turned in a poor performance in their midweek defeat to Nottingham Forest.

Luhukay controversially altered his full-backs, leaving out Liam Palmer and Matt Penney. The pair were rested, with Ash Baker and Morgan Fox handed opportunities to stake a claim for regular starting spots.

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Midfielder Josh Onomah was also given his first Wednesday start since joining on a season long-loan from Tottenham while Atdhe Nuhiu returned up front.

For more news from Hillsborough click here       

But despite the alterations, the Owls put in a disjointed, below-par display as Forest triumphed 2-1.

On rotating his full-backs, Luhukay told The Star: "Of course, all the players play so many games in the Championship and we try to look to other players and make decisions."

It is highly likely Palmer and Penney will be restored to the defence for Saturday's trip to Villa Park.

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There is also a strong possibility Luhukay may have to make one enforced change at centre-half, with Jordan Thorniley (calf) a major doubt. Michael Hector, on loan from Chelsea, or Daniel Pudil could fill in for Thorniley should he miss out.

Joey Pelupessy, Fraser Preston and Steven Fletcher may be in Luhukay's thoughts as Wednesday look to get back on track after a first defeat in five matches.

"Aston Villa is not an easy opponent and we will have to work hard to come to a good result," said Luhukay.

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The Owls will definitely be without forward Fernando Forestieri, who is set to complete his three-match suspension.

Luhukay refuses to use Forestieri's absence as an excuse for Wednesday's dismal showing at Forest, saying: "It is not to do with players who are not there.

"You must do more to keep the ball. When you lose the ball directly after the first or second pass, you don't come into a good rhythm."

Gary Hooper is poised to feature in the Owls Under-23s match with local rivals Sheffield United tomorrow night. Kick-off is 7pm at Hillsborough. Admission is free for season ticket holders otherwise £3 adults and £2 concessions.

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Related topics:Sheffield WednesdayAston VillaNottingham ForestLiam PalmerAtdhe Nuhiu