Irvine braced for Deepdale return

15 March 2010 16:15
Sheffield Wednesday manager Alan Irvine has no new injury or suspension problems for his side's midweek clash at former club Preston. Irvine, who replaced Brian Laws as permanent boss at Hillsborough after his surprise sacking by Preston in late December, is not expected to make any changes following the 0-0 draw at Swansea on Saturday. Midfielder Sean McAllister remains doubtful after missing out over the weekend due to a strained stomach muscle and defender Lewis Buxton is still struggling with a hamstring problem. Irvine named striker Marcus Tudgay on the substitutes' bench at Swansea after his recent illness and must decide whether to recall his leading goalscorer or stick with Leon Clarke up front alongside on-loan Luke Varney. Wednesday's point gained at Swansea was enough to lift them out of the bottom three and a win for Irvine on his first return to Deepdale could see the Owls climb to 19th place in the table.

Source: PA