Sheffield Wednesday will be determined to put the brakes on their 18-game winless run when they face QPR at Loftus Road on Sunday lunchtime.
The Owls, who have won each of their last two trips to Loftus Road, made a disappointing start to 2026 on Thursday afternoon, being beaten 3-0 by Preston North End at Deepdale.
Wednesday made an encouraging start in Lancashire, taking the game to Paul Heckingbottom’s team, but they never recovered after Ali McCann fired the hosts in front after 28 minutes. Fatigue played a massive part in the Owls’ performance, highlighting their desperate need for fresh blood in this month’s transfer window.
With the trip to the capital marking the Owls’ final game of what has been a relentless festive period, here is how we think Wednesday could line up:
1. GK: Pierce Charles
Charles has started every game since returning from injury in December and that trend is expected to continue in the capital. He is one of the very first names on the teamsheet. | UGC
2. RCB: Dominic Iorfa
Iorfa was at fault for Preston's opener at Deepdale, failing to clear the ball when he had countless opportunities, but a lack of alternative options could see him keep his place at right-sided centre-back. | UGC
3. CB: Gabriel Otegbayo
Otegbayo made his third successive start against Preston, starting in the middle of the back-three, and he is likely to retain that berth against QPR. | UGC
4. LCB: Cole McGhee
After making way for Liam Cooper at Deepdale, McGhee is expected to reclaim the left-sided centre-back spot after the former was forced off injured with a groin issue. He produced a solid performance on his Championship debut against Blackburn Rovers on Monday night. | UGC