Jos Luhukay tells Sheffield Wednesday players to keep calm in derby cauldron

Wednesday manager Jos Luhukay has told his players to keep "cool heads" in their Yorkshire derby showdown with Leeds United.
Sheffield Wednesday chief Jos LuhukaySheffield Wednesday chief Jos Luhukay
Sheffield Wednesday chief Jos Luhukay

The Owls, who are currently enjoying a six-match unbeaten run at Hillsborough, could field an unchanged starting line-up when they take on the Whites tomorrow night.

Luhukay, who has Fernando Forestieri available again after suspension, told The Star: "We will have a fantastic atmosphere with all the fans behind us but we must not lose our mental situation and what we like to tactically do as a team.

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"We must not lose that. When you lose that, you come in dangerous moments and periods in the game.

"We must have cool heads to do the best that we can. It will be a new experience for some players but you can learn the best when you play in these games."

It will be the first time Luhukay has crossed paths with Leeds boss Marcelo Bielsa. The charismatic Bielsa, who has previously managed clubs in his native Argentina, Spain and France, has steered the Whites to the top of the Championship.

"He had his reason to come to England and the Championship to work," said Luhukay. "It was maybe for him a new challenge in a new country to bring his own philosophy as a coach.

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"He has done very well with his team in the last two months. We will see what this season brings for him and his team.

"I wish Leeds and my colleague all the best but not for the 90 minutes tomorrow!"

Bielsa has indicated he intends to keep faith with the same team that suffered a surprise home defeat to Birmingham City.

Luhukay said: "It doesn't necessarily help. We analyse our opponent and look at the details.

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"We have a lot of respect for them. They have made a fantastic start to the season. Their team has confidence and trust.

"Maybe last week was a small mistake at the game. We know their qualities and how they are playing and we must have the answers tomorrow."

The Dutchman expects Leeds to provide his side with a stern examination of their promotion credentials.

"The team has quality," said Luhukay. "They have a good mix and are very strong in the offensive.

"They are a balanced team. It will be hard work.

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"We will try to play football so we can win. We will give 100 per cent. We are at home with our fans behind us. We must enjoy the game but hopefully, at the end, we will get a good result and can have a nice weekend."