It's been a 2020 to forget for Sheffield Wednesday, with Garry Monk's side struggling for any positives after a dismal run of form since the turn of the New Year. 

The Owls had previously occupied a place in the play-offs, but have struggled in recent matches, with a run of just one win in their last ten matches seeing them fall to 15th in the Championship table.

The pressure is firmly on Garry Monk to turn their poor run of results around at the earliest of opportunities. Recent events have called a temporary halt to football across the UK though, and the Hillsborough faithful will be hoping that this break from competitive action can benefit their fortunes.

In a message posted on the club's official website, Monk issued an update into their preparations for the remainder of the season, after the players were instructed to train from home during the 'lockdown' period.

"We finished normal training just under two weeks ago and immediately formulated a plan setting out the home fitness programmes for the players and the importance of following them on a daily basis.

"They have all been given individual schedules which are monitored daily through the technologies at our disposal, so we have a very accurate idea of their fitness levels. We were very well prepared with the input of Tony Strudwick and the club doctor, Richard Higgins."

The Owls boss revealed that his staff are covering 'every angle' to ensure that players are ready for competitive action whilst training from home, which will be pleasing to hear for the club's supporters.

"We are continuing the analysis side of things in preparation for the return to normal. We are in constant touch with the players by telephone and conference calls as it’s equally important to talk. Obviously it is impossible for us to train as we normally do and the physical conditioning that brings.

"But we are covering every possible angle we can to make sure the foundations for the players are as strong as possible for when we can return."

Sheffield Wednesday are back in action on the 2nd May against relegation-threatened Middlesbrough, although the scheduled return date could be pushed further back if the off-the-field crisis is to worsen.

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The Verdict: 

It's good to hear that Monk and his staff are still in regular contact with the Sheffield Wednesday players.

They haven't been good enough since the turn of the New Year, and it's no surprise to see that Monk is facing questions from some sections of the club's supporters in regards to his future at Hillsborough.

The Owls have a good set of players at this moment in time, but for one reason or another, something just isn't clicking. Garry Monk needs to find a winning formula during this break from competitive action, otherwise his days with Sheffield Wednesday are likely to be numbered.