Glenn Loovens set to return for Sheffield Wednesday against Reading

Posted Friday, January 26, 2018 by PA

Sheffield Wednesday defender Glenn Loovens is back in contention for his side’s FA Cup tie against Reading after suspension.

Loovens has served a two-game ban following his second dismissal of the season in the recent derby clash with city rivals Sheffield United.

Boss Jos Luhukay has no new injury worries, while new signing Joel Pelupessy is hoping to make his debut after being an unused substitute in last week’s goalless home draw against Cardiff.

Defenders Tom Lees and Joost van Aken, plus midfielder Barry Bannan are edging closer to a return following injury, but Gary Hooper and Sam Hutchinson remain long-term absentees.

Reading manager Jaap Stam is again expected to make changes to his starting XI.

Goalkeeper Anssi Jaakkola, defender Tyler Blackett and Dutch midfielder Pelle Clement are all in contention, while Jon Dadi Bodvarsson, who scored a hat-trick in the third-round replay win over Stevenage, could lead the attack.

Captain Paul McShane is recovering from a hamstring problem, but forward Joseph Mendes is now back in training following his knee injury.

Midfielder John Swift, though, faces another spell out with a troublesome hamstring issue, while defender Omar Richards (hamstring) is also sidelined and Jordan Obita (knee) is out for the season.