Sheffield Wed. vs Brighton & Hove Albion preview - Owls wait on Loovens

Posted Friday, February 13, 2015 by PA

Sheffield Wednesday skipper Glenn Loovens face a late fitness test ahead of the home game against Brighton.

Central defender Loovens, who has missed the last two games through suspension, sustained an ankle injury during training this week and is a major doubt.

Striker Chris Maguire sits out the final game of his two-match ban and midfielder Jose Semedo remains doubtful after missing the midweek defeat at Ipswich due to a toe injury.

Recent signing Filipe Melo made his first appearance off the bench on Tuesday night and is pushing for his full debut as Wednesday bid for their first league win in six matches.

Sam Baldock is poised to return to the Brighton squad after recovering from a hamstring injury.

The striker was not risked in Tuesday night's goalless draw at Cardiff despite travelling to Wales, but he is in contention to face the Owls.

Winger Solly March remains a doubt with the calf injury which ruled him out in midweek and midfielder Andrew Crofts is a long-term absentee with cruciate damage.

Dale Stephens should be involved again after making a welcome return as a late substitute against the Bluebirds following 10 months on the sidelines with ankle ligament damage.