Transfer rush for Sturrock

Last updated : 30 January 2006 By Andy Parsons

The Owls boss who has made Peter Gilbert, Marcus Tudgay and Deon Burton permanent signings this month is desperate to add cover to a depleted midfield department.

Wednesday have been linked with David Friio of Nottingham Forest and West Bromwich Albion's Andy Johnson but Sturrock has vowed to get in a player before the deadline.

He told the Sheffield Star: "It's hectic at the moment, we're trying to hammer our way through things. There's nothing to report at the moment. If we've got anyone coming in, it will be tight to the deadline.

"Because of Craig Rocastle and Steve Adams' injuries, we have a problem in the centre of midfield. If one of the other two is injured we'd have to have someone in there from an alien position and that's not ideal. We'd have a novice in there."

Steve MacLean should play some part against Luton Town tomorrow night while David Lucas will play his first league game since November following Nicky Weaver's return to Manchester City.

Wednesday are still assessing whether or not to sign midfield veteran Scott Gemmill who is currently on trial at Hillsborough.