This article is part of Football FanCast’s The Chalkboard series, which provides a tactical insight into teams, players, managers, potential signings and more…
Sheffield Wednesday return to league action on Saturday afternoon, just a few days after their disappointing draw at Derby County.
The Owls missed out on an opportunity to return to the playoffs as they were pegged back at Pride Park late on.
Steven Fletcher opened the scoring in the 23rd minute when Barry Bannan pounced on a defensive error to send him through on goal, and the 32-year-old hit it first time around the home goalkeeper.
However, eight minutes from time, Garry Monk’s side conceded a penalty through Moses Odubajo after he brought down Jack Marriott inside the area. Veteran striker Chris Martin duly stepped up from the spot.
Things soon turned much sour for the Owls right-back as he received his marching orders in injury time.
On the Chalkboard
Odubajo has started the last four games so his absence could be perceived as a great loss ahead of their return to the Midlands on Saturday, but this isn’t the case.
Liam Palmer, who had played six straight games on the right-hand side before suspension, is once again available for selection and instead of facing a major headache over who to select, Monk can bring the long-serving Owl straight back into the starting lineup.
The 28-year-old averages more interceptions per game than Odubajo with 1.7, more clearances at 1.6 per match and even concedes fewer fouls than his rival full-back at just 1.1 per game, via WhoScored.
Therefore, it seems like this enforced change could actually be a blessing in disguise for Monk as his right flank is going to be considerably strengthened defensively.
The Owls have conceded in every single game during Palmer’s absence so they could certainly do with his presence in the backline.
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In other news, Sheffield Wednesday have suffered a major setback ahead of this weekend’s trip to Nottingham Forest…
