The Season So Far
Since the beginning of the New Year, The Owls have remained unbeaten in the league. Last week they came from a goal behind to beat Birmingham City 2-1, also managing to take a point off of Burnley the previous Tuesday.
Their last defeat came in the Fourth Round of the FA Cup to League One side Shrewsbury Town at the end of January. Lewis McGugan had twice seen goals cancelled out before Jack Grimmer headed a winner in the seventh minute of stoppage time.
Wednesday came away from Griffin Park in September with all three points, following a game involving two red cards and a last-minute winner from Lucas João. Alan Judge had pulled the home side level after an early penalty was put away by Atdhe Nuhiu.
They added three former Watford players in the summer; Fernando Forestieri, Lewis McGugan and Daniel Pudil (loan). Loan deals were also secured for Michael Turner [Norwich City], Alex Lopez [Celta Vigo] and Joe Bennett [Aston Villa].
January’s transfer window saw them recruit two former Celtic players in Aiden McGeady [Everton] and Gary Hooper [Norwich City]. Rhoys Wiggins was the only permanent addition, signing from AFC Bournemouth on deadline day.
Midfielder Sam Hutchinson faces a late fitness test because of a knock he picked up in the midlands. Kieran Lee also needs to be assessed with a back injury, while Glenn Loovens has been ruled out with a groin problem. Goalkeeper Keiren Westwood was subbed for Lewis Price after 20 minutes at St Andrew’s but is expected to return to the team.
The Gaffer
Carlos Carvalhal has been Head Coach since the summer, signing a contract with The Owls after a 3-year break from the game. His previous roles include time with Portuguese giants Sporting Lisbon and SC Braga.
The 50-year-old had three spells with The Archbishops during his playing days, and also made appearances at centre-back for teams like GD Chaves, FC Porto and SD Espinho. His most recent trophy win was in the Portuguese League Cup, helping Vitória de Setúbal to their first title in 2008.
The Match Officials
Referee: Scott Duncan
Assistant Referees: James Mainwaring and Akil Howson
Fourth Official: Jeremy Simpson
Ticket news
Ticket Sales from Brentford FC finish at 2pm today (Friday 12 Feb) but fans can also pay on the day by visiting the away end Ticket Office at Hillsborough on Saturday.
Bees Player
You can hear live match commentary on Bees Player from 2.30pm tomorrow afternoon, with Mark Burridge and Ciaran Brett.