Why Garry Monk is convinced Sheffield Wednesday's fortunes will soon change

The Owls face Premier League Brighton and Hove Albion in the third round of the FA Cup on Saturday afternoon looking to end a run of three successive defeats.

But Monk, who will shuffle his pack following a gruelling festive period, is refusing to panic, despite a slump in their fortunes.

“You want to win whether it is the cup or the league, but you also have to remain realistic and balanced," Monk told The Star.

"We, of course, had three results that we didn't want in one week but we have seen what the team are capable of and what work needs to be done.

"I have said it from the start that this is not going to be an overnight and we are all of a sudden going to be a promotion-winning team with ease or anything like that.

"It is going to take work at this club but everyone is working hard.

“The players are working hard and we have to remain balanced and realistic."

Wednesday are in eighth position, two points outside the play-off positions following Swansea City's hard-fought win over Charlton Athletic on Thursday evening.

Monk said: "We are not going to fall off the edge of a cliff because we have had a bad run of three games and we didn't get too high when we are on a six-match unbeaten run.

"It is a balancing act and we have to remain focused and positive.

"We haven't done well in the last week but we have a chance to turn it around and that is what this period offers you and that is what this league offers you constantly.

"It will turn and we want to try and make it as quick as possible.

"We have to continue to fight and come back with that determination."

Today’s tie will be the first time the Owls have played Brighton in the FA Cup since their semi-final clash in 1983.

The Seagulls won 2-1 at Highbury but lost to Manchester United in the final.