Bullen provides key Sheffield Wednesday team news ahead of Brentford clash

Speaking to Sheffield Wednesday’s official Twitter account (@SWFC), Lee Bullen has ruled Keiren Westwood out of tomorrow’s clash with Brentford, whilst also confirming that the contest at Griffin Park could come too soon for Barry Bannan.

Bullen is taking charge of his second fixture following Carlos Carvalhal’s dismissal, with the Wednesday caretaker boss looking to build on the impressive 3-0 victory he picked up during his first game against Nottingham Forest.

However, the Owls will be without Westwood for a fourth consecutive game, with Joe Wildsmith expected to once again deputise for the Irish goalkeeper.

Bullen had more positive news on Bannan, who has returned to training after also missing Wednesday’s last three fixtures, although Bullen did admit that Saturday’s clash might come too soon for the influential Scotsman.

LB: Bannan is back on the grass today but the game may come too early for him, Westwood will not be available #swfcLIVE

— Sheffield Wednesday (@swfc) December 28, 2017

Boxing Day’s victory over Forest gave the Owls a renewed hope as they began life without Carvalhal in the dugout.

Carvalhal’s underwhelming start to the season ultimately cost him his job, with Wednesday currently sitting 14^th in the Championship table, way short of where many expected them to be.

The Owls are currently 11 points adrift of the top-six, but will be hopeful of narrowing that against Brentford on Saturday afternoon.

The Verdict

It is easy to forget the injury troubles facing Wednesday this season, with a lot of key individuals unavailable to Carvalhal, and now Bullen.

Whilst there would be a temptation to rush someone like Bannan back into action, Bullen is looking at the long-term picture and will not want to risk such an influential player so soon after injury.

When Wednesday’s injured stars return, they could start to look like a real force, once again.

Sheffield Wednesday fans… Let us know your thoughts!