Honest assessment made by Tony Pulis over the impact of fringe players at Sheffield Wednesday

The Owls boss, who after Tuesday evening’s defeat at Nottingham Forest explained what has so far been a relatively consistent selection policy, introduced Callum Paterson, Izzy Brown, Alex Hunt and Jordan Rhodes at the City Ground but admitted he was disappointed in their impact.

It’s a line he has spoken previously, describing the depth of the squad as a concern, reiterating the requirement for quality to be brought in during the January transfer window.

He said: “When you are playing at Championship level, you need to have depth to the squad and players that can come on and change things. I don't think the changes - it is not the first time it has happened - have made an impact.”

The Welshman has repeatedly said that the players themselves will be boosted by an influx of new faces.

Asked whether the Owls job is proving to be the biggest challenge of his career, Pulis said: “There have been some big challenges in my time. I have stayed up on the last day of the season.

“I think everybody knows what we need. I don't think it's a secret.

“Whether we get it or not, we will have to wait and see but I will do my best while I am here with the players that I've got.

“I don't want to have a go at the players because I really do think they are trying their best. I think we need some help.

“It is a difficult job. One of the main things that you need to do is stay nice and solid, nice and together. I think the players are going out there and giving their best. They looked tired in the second half. The better players in the group didn't control it like they did in the first half.”

Wednesday are on a horror run of nine matches without a win and take on fellow likely relegation candidates Coventry City, managed by former Owls forward Mark Robins, at Hillsborough on Saturday.

MORE FROM OUR WEDNESDAY WRITING TEAM

Sheffield Wednesday players not paid in full – issue 'to be dealt with promptly'

"I wouldn't mind another nine of him" - Who Tony Pulis has singled out for praise at Sheffield Wednesday

“We’ll see” – Tony Pulis on whether Sheffield Wednesday will move fast in January transfer window

*

Thank you for reading this article, one of dozens we publish every single day to provide you with the best, most up-to-date and most informative coverage of YOUR club. This depth of coverage costs, so to help us maintain the high-quality reporting that you are used to from the football team at The Star, please consider taking out a subscription to our new discounted sports-only package. You'll find all the details at www.thestar.co.uk/subscriptions/sports.

Your support is much appreciated.

Chris Holt, Football Editor