Owls Vs Sky Blues: Team news

Last updated : 01 April 2008 By C. Morris

Torrential rain caused the abandonment of the fixture back in December and the subsequent rearranged date was also affected by the weather. Further downpours in Sheffield last night had me fearing that this match would never get played but thankfully the weather has dried up and the crucial game for two teams struggling at the foot of the Championship table is set to go ahead.

The main new injury concern for the Owls surrounds Richard Hinds, who has recently been playing in the right-back slot. Hinds took a knock from Stoke striker Shola Ameobi last Saturday and had to be substituted as a result. If he fails to prove his fitness he is likely to be replaced by experienced fellow utility man, Steve Watson.

Deon Burton and Ben Sahar are likely to be paired once again in attack and with Marcus Tudgay confirmed as being out for the season and Enoch Showunmi having returned to Bristol City, new loan striker Bartosz Slusarski will be eager to make an impact but will probably have to wait for his chance on the bench.

Jermaine Johnson returned to the side as a substitute at the weekend following his suspension and could be in contention for a starting place. Franck Songo'o is likely to keep his place in the side but whether he starts on the left or right side will depend on whether JJ or Wade Small is chosen as the other wide player in the starting 11.

Coventry are expected to name an unchanged side from the one that recorded an impressive 3-1 home victory over Plymouth at the weekend. Striker Leon Best remains sidelined as he serves the second of his two-match ban.

The two sides met a little over two weeks ago in what turned out to be a very tepid 0-0 draw at the Ricoh Arena.

Wednesday will be looking to continue their good recent home record against Coventry which has seen them beat the midlands club on each of the last 4 encounters.

Both sides have collected 9 points from their last six games and while the Owls have drawn their last 3 fixtures, Coventry have gone 7 games without an away win.