Owls won't risk Gardner Sheffield Wednesday defender Anthony Gardner is unlikely to be rushed back in time for the home game with Bolton. Gardner, a free summer signing, has been sidelined for the last six matches due to a troublesome hamstring injury, but manager Dave Jones will only turn to the former Crystal Palace defender if he is 100% fit despite a run of three straight defeats. Jones will be without right-back Joe Mattock, who sits out a one-game ban following his dismissal against Huddersfield in midweek for two bookable offences, while the Owls boss was ready to make changes anyway at the back after blaming sloppy defending for the defeat. Defenders Miguel Llera and Daniel Jones, both unused substitutes on Wednesday night, provide alternative options. Another defender, Reda Johnson, is playing through the pain due to a foot problem, but is expected to continue. Spanish striker Rodri made way for Gary Madine in midweek, while Ross Barkley stepped into midfield in place of Rhys McCabe and Jones may switch things around again as his side chase their first win in four matches. Jay Spearing is a major doubt as Bolton look to break their away duck. Spearing departed 17 minutes into Wanderers' third consecutive npower Championship defeat on the road at Birmingham in midweek due to a tight calf and, although there is no tear to the muscle, boss Owen Coyle accepts the on-loan Liverpool midfielder is unlikely to feature. "Obviously Jay Spearing is a huge concern, coming off so early in the game," he said. "His calf had tightened up and he wasn't able to get about the way he wants, "He will be a big doubt, I would think, for Saturday but we'll give him every chance. The great thing is that there was no major tear in the calf, a bit of swelling, and day-by-day hopefully that gets better." Summer signing Keith Andrews came off the bench to replace Spearing and is favourite to start in his expected absence. Bolton have no other new injury concerns, while David Wheater, Stuart Holden and Josh Vela (all knee) remain long-term absentees.
Source: PA
