Sheffield Wednesday face a challenging Championship clash this weekend as they host struggling Cardiff City at Hillsborough.
Both sides enter the match off the back of defeats before the international break, with the Owls losing to Sheffield United and Cardiff falling to Blackburn Rovers. There could be good news for the hosts though, in such an important encounter.
The game carries significant weight for both teams. Wednesday sit 15th in the table with just one win in their last four matches, while Cardiff are in 22nd, three points behind the Owls, despite a recent six-game unbeaten run that briefly lifted them out of the relegation zone.
Michael Ihiekwe Spotted in Training
In a boost for manager Danny Rohl, defender Michael Ihiekwe has been pictured back in training. The centre-back has been sidelined since late September with a persistent Achilles injury. While Rohl never described Ihiekwe’s absence as long-term, the 32-year-old has been carefully managed to ensure full recovery before his return to the Championship.
Images released by Sheffield Wednesday show Ihiekwe participating in training ahead of Saturday’s clash, sparking speculation that he could feature in the matchday squad. The timing of his return is fortunate, given Akin Famewo’s recent injury and a demanding schedule of fixtures.
Injury Updates and Suspension Risks
Elsewhere in the squad, Nathaniel Chalobah remains on track to return later this month or in December, having yet to feature in the Championship this season following his summer arrival. Meanwhile, Olaf Kobacki is still sidelined and is not expected back for several more weeks.
Who is Michael Ihiekwe?
Ihiekwe began his career in Liverpool’s academy before joining Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2011, where he signed a professional contract but did not make a first-team appearance. In 2014, Ihiekwe moved to Tranmere Rovers, amassing 112 appearances and five goals over three seasons. He then joined Rotherham United in 2017, contributing to their promotion campaigns and scoring in the 2022 EFL Trophy Final. In 2022, Ihiekwe signed with Sheffield Wednesday, where he continues to be a defensive mainstay.
Writer’s View
The sight of Michael Ihiekwe back in training is a welcome development for Sheffield Wednesday. His experience could provide valuable defensive stability as the team navigates a busy and critical stretch of the season. However, Rohl must balance the need to integrate Ihiekwe gradually with the immediate demands of Championship competition. Cardiff’s struggles present a winnable fixture, but the Owls must remain focused to capitalise on their opponent’s vulnerabilities.
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