Sheffield Wednesday and Portsmouth F.C. lineups have been confirmed for their upcoming Championship clash on April 26, 2025.
Both teams enter this fixture with different objectives and injury concerns that have shaped their starting elevens. This article examines both teams’ confirmed lineups, key absences, and recent form heading into this important match.
Sheffield Wednesday’s confirmed starting eleven
Sheffield Wednesday manager has selected a strong lineup despite dealing with several injury concerns. Pierce Charles gets the nod in goal, with a back four consisting of Yan Valery, Shea Charles, Michael Ihiekwe, and Marvin Johnson. Captain Barry Bannan anchors the midfield alongside Callum Paterson and Svante Ingelsson. The attack will be led by Josh Windass and Michael Smith.
This selection represents some forced changes from recent matches. Michael Ihiekwe has been included despite being doubtful in recent games, suggesting he has recovered sufficiently to start. The midfield trio of Bannan, Paterson, and Ingelsson will be crucial in controlling the tempo against Portsmouth’s experienced central players.
Portsmouth’s team selection and tactical approach
Portsmouth will line up with Nicolas Schmid between the posts, protected by a defensive unit of Zak Swanson, Regan Poole, Rob Atkinson, and Connor Ogilvie. The midfield features Freddie Potts and Andre Dozzell in central roles, while Matt Ritchie, Adil Aouchiche, and Josh Murphy provide creative support for striker Colby Bishop.
Portsmouth’s selection shows confidence in Josh Murphy and Colby Bishop, both of whom had been nursing injuries but have been deemed fit enough to start. This attacking quartet will pose significant challenges for Sheffield Wednesday’s defense, particularly with Murphy’s pace on the flanks and Bishop’s aerial presence in the box.
Key injury concerns affecting both teams
Sheffield Wednesday enter this fixture with several defensive worries. Max Lowe and Di’Shon Bernard are confirmed absentees, while Dominic Iorfa and Pol Valentin remain doubtful despite late fitness tests. Michael Ihiekwe’s inclusion in the star ting lineup suggests he has overcome his recent fitness concerns.
Portsmouth’s injury list is more extensive. Ibane Bowat, Jacob Farrell, Hayden Matthews, Alexander Milosevic, Paddy Lane, and Thomas Waddingham are all unavailable for selection. Jordan Williams is also sidelined with a hamstring injury that will keep him out for this fixture. Despite these absences, Portsmouth have managed to field a strong starting eleven with both Josh Murphy and Colby Bishop recovering in time.
Recent form and match implications
Sheffield Wednesday come into this match looking to build momentum following their recent victory over Middlesbrough. The inclusion of captain Barry Bannan in midfield provides crucial experience, while Josh Windass will be tasked with providing the creative spark in the final third.
Portsmouth arrive at Hillsborough in good form, having secured consecutive victories against Norwich City and Watford. This positive run has boosted confidence within the squad, evident in their attacking lineup selection. The midfield battle between Bannan and Dozzell could prove decisive in determining which team gains control of this Championship encounter.
The confirmed Sheffield Wednesday vs Portsmouth F.C. lineups reflect both managers’ tactical approaches while accounting for their respective injury situations. With both teams fielding strong starting elevens despite absences, fans can anticipate an engaging contest between two sides with clear game plans.