'We have had a bad period and we need to come out of it' - Garry Monk issues Sheffield Wednesday rallying cry ahead of crunch Barnsley clash

With 16 matches remaining, Wednesday are currently in 11th position, seven points adrift of the play-off placings after winning just one of their last seven Championship outings.

Monk, whose side will be looking to halt a three-match winless run in the league when they head to local rivals Barnsley on Saturday, said: "We have a bad period, in terms of results in the league, and we need to come out of it.

"Hopefully the new players have given impetus to the squad, I can see this week competition is up.

"Starting this weekend, hopefully we can get back on a run like we have done before.

"We have three games this week to try and get a good run going.

"We are capable, for sure.

"We have to turn that corner as soon as possible. We have to get out of this run of form - there is no hiding from that."

New signings Connor Wickham and Josh Windass are pushing for starts after arriving on loan from Crystal Palace and Wigan Athletic respectively.

"Wins are the ultimate confidence booster," said Monk.

"I have not seen a dip in training in the effort and commitment. That has never really been a problem for me. It has been the mentality side of it.

"Have you got the resilience and mentality to come fighting back for your teammates and your self? That is the question that has been asked.

"I do believe they have got that and I have given them the trust to do it.

"We want the players to do well and express themselves within a structure. We want them to fight for this club, the shirt and themselves.

"Hopefully we will see that at Barnsley and in the remaining games."

Left-back Morgan Fox (ankle) and Australian international Massimo Luongo (groin) will be assessed ahead of the trip to Oakwell.

Midfielder Kieran Lee (shoulder) is available for selection again.