Will fringe players get a cup chance?

Last updated : 04 January 2013 By C. Morris

Sheffield Wednesday play host to MK Dons on Saturday in the 3rd round of F.A. Cup. Both clubs have league issues as their priority as Wednesday aim to stay in the Championship and MK Dons strive for promotion from League One but the cup could be a welcome distraction from those pressures.

On loan Stoke striker Mamady Sidibe has been given clearance to play for the Owls by his parent club but could be rested. Attacking players such as Chris Maguire, Rodri, Nejc Pecnik and Jermaine Johnson have had few opportunities of late and could come into contention.

Left-back Rea Johnson has completed a suspension and is available but could be rested. On loan Manchester City wide player Jeremy Helan will serve a 1-match ban as the F.A. investigated the mix up which led to him being booked twice but not sent off in the recent match against Huddersfield.

MK Dons travel to Hillsborough without former Owls full-back Jon Otsemobor due to a groin injury. Dean Bowditch, Stephen Gleeson, Angelo Balanta and Luke Chadwick are also carrying injuries which are expected to keep them out of the match.

Izale McLeod rejoined MK Dons this week; he scored against the Owls in his previous spell with the club but will not face them on this occasion due to being cup-tied.

Ryan Lowe and Darren Potter could both line up against their former club.

The 2 sides met twice in League One last season with the Owls gaining the upper hand thanks to a win at Hillsborough and a draw at Stadium MK on their way to automatic promotion.

Wednesday’s recent of 4 games without defeat came to an end when Burnley won comfortably at Hillsborough on New Years Day. MK Dons won away at Notts County on Tuesday to end a 2-game losing streak.