Centre back crisis? - What could be Garry Monk’s Sheffield Wednesday defence against Birmingham City?

Sheffield Wednesday have been hit by injuries, with their availability for next weekend as yet unknown.
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The Owls suffered some big defensive blows prior to and during the 1-1 draw with Queens Park Rangers, with Dominic Iorfa being forced to sit it out before Liam Shaw, Liam Palmer and Tom Lees all had to leave the field before the final whistle.

Meanwhile, Chet Dunkley still needs time with the U23s before he makes his Owls debut following a move from Wigan Athletic.

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Garry Monk did appear hopeful that the international break would give his players a chance to get fit and available again, but it remains to be seen how many - if any - will be in contention for the trip to the Midlands on October 17th.

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If none of them are able to feature, then the SWFC boss may be forced into a reshuffle that could see a bit of a makeshift central defence, with Joost van Aken the only one of his main centre backs from this season who is fit.

Julian Börner could make a return to the side after falling down the pecking order in the current campaign, while 20-year-old Ciaran Brennan is the only other central defender available.

As was the case v QPR, Moses Odubajo may be called upon as a right-sided centre back, and while Osaze Urhoghide can also play there, there are questions about whether he’s able to return to competitive Championship action just yet.

Sheffield Wednesday could have a bit of a defensive crisis on their hands. (Pic Steve Ellis)Sheffield Wednesday could have a bit of a defensive crisis on their hands. (Pic Steve Ellis)
Sheffield Wednesday could have a bit of a defensive crisis on their hands. (Pic Steve Ellis)
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Monk will be hopeful that a couple of his walking wounded can get themselves back in contention in the next few days, but only time will tell.

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