This article is part of Football FanCast’s The Chalkboard series, which provides a tactical insight into teams, players, managers, potential signings and more…
Sheffield Wednesday return to action this afternoon looking to build on last weekend’s victory.
It was the Owls’ first win in five matches as they defeated Charlton Athletic 3-1 at The Valley with their next challenge coming in the form of Brentford.
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Just one point separates the two teams as they both are well in the hunt for playoff contention this season.
Wednesday boss Garry Monk could be left with a selection dilemma after Fernando Forestieri picked up an injury last time out, so it seems likely that Adam Reach will have to battle Jacob Murphy for a spot on the right-wing.
On the Chalkboard
That’s if he keeps the 4-4-2 system that has worked on multiple occasions this season.
Both Murphy and Reach had to make do with a spot on the bench in south-east London while Forestieri and Kadeem Harris earned starts.
The latter soon thrived after returning to the left-hand side of the wing, recording four key passes and four shots at goal.
The £4.05m-rated (Transfermarkt) Murphy was the man to replace the injured Italian at half-time, and he showed glimpses of his recent upturn in form, registering two key passes and one successful dribble whilst earning three setpieces, per SofaScore.
However, Reach has failed to register a match rating above 6.8 for five straight matches now as he struggles to get a stronghold in the game. In the last two games alone he hasn’t even registered an attempt at goal.
In addition, the 24-year-old’s pace could be rather useful as the likely left-back for the Bees, Rico Henry, concedes an average of 1.1 fouls per game and ranks fifth or worse for stats surrounding tackling, interceptions and clearances, via WhoScored.
Therefore, Monk should opt for Murphy to start this fixture and if things don’t go to plan, he knows he can call upon the quality of Reach if need be.
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Meanwhile, Sheffield Wednesday fans have been launching a tirade at their owner this week….
