Owls seek home improvement

Last updated : 18 January 2013 By C. Morris

Sheffield Wednesday take on Wolverhampton Wanderers at Hillsborough on Saturday as they look to replicate their recent away league form that has enabled them to move out of the Championship relegation zone.

The clash is subject to the weather with heavy snow expected to fall on Friday. The pitch may not be a problem due to undersoil heating but the surrounding areas may cause safety concerns.

Dave Jones has a fully fit squad to choose from following the news that Jermaine Johnson looks set to be able to play having limped out of Tuesday’s F.A. Cup defeat at MK Dons during the first half with a back problem.

Midfielder David Prutton is available for selection once again having served a two-match suspension.

Wednesday made a total of 7 changes for the midweek cup game and none of the fringe players appear to have done themselves any favours in terms of pushing for a regular first-team place.

The Owls line up at Hull City last weekend raised a few eyebrows when Michail Antonio was selected to play up front with no recognised striker in the first 11. The team produced one of their best performances of the season, resulting in a 3-1 away win with the pace and movement of Antonio, Jeremy Helan and Jermaine Johnson causing a constant threat.

Wolves picked up a point in new manager Dean Saunders first game in charge last week and the Welshman will be keen to bring his fine away record that he enjoyed when in charge of Doncaster Rovers this season to his new club.

Jake Cassidy, who has been in goal scoring form for Tranmere during a loan spell in the first half of the season, has returned to his parent club and may start at Hillsborough.

Former Spurs midfielder Jamie O’Hara made a positive impact as a substitute last time out and could be in contention to start on Saturday. Centre-back Danny Batth, who played an influential role in the Owls promotion from League One last season when on loan at Hillsborough, is likely to be on the bench.

Wednesday suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat at Wolves back in September. The Owls recent record against Wolves has been woeful with just 2 wins in the last 20 clashes between the two sides dating back to 1990.