West Brom host Sheffield Wednesday this weekend and it could be a very significant game for a variety of reasons.

Firstly, the obvious reason. Albion lead the way in the Championship and picking up three points at home could see them extend their lead at the top ahead of a very busy period in the campaign.

However, it's not going to be easy, with Slaven Bilic having to do without first-choice midfield pairing Romaine Sawyers and Jake Livermore on Saturday because of suspension.

That has created a real problem for the Croatian and it's going to be very interesting to see how he looks to solve this issue.

Fortunately, there are many possible solutions, from dropping Filip Krovinovic back, pushing Semi Ajayi forward or bringing in experienced duo Chris Brunt and Gareth Barry.

And, there's another one - starting Rekeem Harper.

The 19-year-old was a real breakthrough star for the Baggies last season and with his contract expiring he had attracted plenty of interest from across Britain.

West Brom Quiz: Can you get 18 out of 18?

Yet, he eventually committed to a new long-term deal and the plan would have been for him to kick on this season but that hasn't happened at all.

Just seven minutes of action in the league show how he has fallen down the pecking order and he has failed to make the 18 for most squads this season too. Perhaps more worryingly, those who have seen him play for the U23s suggest he isn't doing much to suggest Bilic is wrong.

However, this could be the opportunity he needs to show his talent under the new regime, in front of a bumper crowd and on a big stage, the sort of environment where he could thrive.

Brunt and Barry don't have the energy to play together, whilst Krovinovic and Ajayi are better suited in different roles.

So, even if Bilic would be somewhat justified in not playing Harper, he does have the qualities to make an impact against the Owls.

With Sawyers and Livermore only missing one game, the teenager will know that a failure to get on the pitch this weekend would not be good at all.

In fact, it could convince him that he made the wrong decision in extending his stay at The Hawthorns and that his future lies elsewhere - just a matter of months after that new deal.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.