Sheffield Wednesday will begin life without Henrik Pedersen when they host Cambridge United in League One at Hillsborough on Tuesday evening.
Pedersen was sacked by the Owls on Sunday, less than 24 hours after overseeing a 2-0 defeat to Doncaster Rovers at the Club Doncaster Sports Village. Wednesday produced another flat and uninspiring display against their South Yorkshire rivals, prompting the club’s hierarchy to decide that a change was necessary.
First-team coach Matt Hamshaw has been placed in caretaker charge and will oversee the visit of the U’s, who will also be looking to return to winning ways after suffering a 3-2 defeat to Plymouth Argyle at the weekend.
Ahead of the visit of the U’s, Hamshaw will welcome midfielder Callum Slattery back into contention after he missed the trip to Doncaster through suspension. Meanwhile, the likes of Reece James and Harry Gray will be pushing for recalls.
Here is how The Star thinks Wednesday could line up...
5. LB: Max Lowe
Lowe made his first start since August against Doncaster, slotting in at left-sided centre-back before Wednesday switched to a back four less than 20 minutes into the contest after conceding two early goals. Nobody emerged from the Doncaster defeat with much credit, but Wednesday know they have a quality operator in Lowe when he is at his best. He now needs to build some consistency at left-back. | Getty Images
6. CM: Billy Mitchell
Mitchell returned to the starting XI against Doncaster and provided a sense of urgency in the second half as Wednesday tried to fight their way back into the contest. Capable of dictating the tempo and helping to control possession, he could retain his place in the starting XI for the clash with the U’s. | Getty Images
7. CM: Barry Bannan
If Wednesday are to rediscover their mojo, they need Bannan to return to his best. The Scot has struggled for form so far this season, failing to produce the same level of quality that he has consistently shown throughout his Wednesday career. On his day, he remains the Owls’ most gifted player, and they need him to start shining again. | Getty Images
8. RM: Kieran Morrison
After starting at left wing-back at the weekend, Morrison quickly found himself back in his natural role following a disastrous start from the Owls. However, like several of his teammates, he struggled to impose himself on proceedings. Despite that, he is talented enough to make his mark. He just needs a consistent run of games on the right wing. | Getty Images