Looking for the latest on Sheffield Wednesday vs Portsmouth F.C. lineups? The two Championship sides have been fielding interesting combinations in their 2025 encounters, with both managers navigating injury concerns while trying to maintain competitive squads.
Key starters for Sheffield Wednesday
Sheffield Wednesday’s lineup has been anchored by young goalkeeper Pierce Charles, who has established himself as the first-choice option between the posts. His performances have given confidence to the defensive unit ahead of him.
The Owls’ backline typically features Yan Valery, Shea Charles, Gabriel Otegbayo, and Marvin Johnson. This defensive quartet has been working to build chemistry despite occasional rotation due to fitness concerns.
In midfield, captain Barry Bannaun continues to be the heartbeat of the team. The experienced Scotsman orchestrates play alongside Callum Paterson, Svante Ingelsson, and Michael Smith, forming a balanced midfield that combines creativity and defensive solidity.
The forward line has been led by the dynamic Djeidi Gassama paired with Josh Windass. Their movement and understanding have been crucial to Sheffield Wednesday’s attacking threat.
Portsmouth’s starting eleven
Portsmouth have relied on goalkeeper B. Killip as their last line of defense. His distribution and shot-stopping abili ties have been important assets for Pompey in their Championship campaign.
The defensive unit typically consists of Rob Atkinson, Regan Poole, Connor Ogilvie, and Zak Swanson. This back four has been working to maintain defensive discipline while also supporting attacking moves when possible.
Pompey’s midfield engine room features Freddie Potts and Isaac Hayden providing defensive cover, while Matt Ritchie and Adil Aouchiche offer creative options. This balance has been key to their tactical approach.
Up front, Josh Murphy and Colby Bishop lead the line for Portsmouth. Bishop’s physical presence combined with Murphy’s pace gives defenders plenty to think about throughout matches.
Tactical formations and approaches
Sheffield Wednesday have often employed a 3-6-1 formation, allowing their wing-backs to push forward while maintaining defensive solidity. This system maximizes Bannan’s influence in central areas.
The formation gives the Owls flexibility to adapt during matches, with the ability to shift to a back four when needed. This tactical versatility has been an important aspect of their game plan.
Portsmouth have alternated between 4-2-3-1 and 3-6-1 setups, depending on opposition and available personnel. Their approach typically focuses on solid defensive organization with quick transitions to attack.
The tactical battle between these two sides often centers on midfield control, with both teams looking to dominate possession through their experienced central players.
Injury concerns and squad depth
Sheffield Wednesday have been managing several injury concerns. Max Lowe and Di’Shon Bernard have been sidelined, while doubts persist over Dominic Iorfa, Pol Valentin, and Michael Ihiekwe.
Akin Famewo has been left out as a precaution, though Amad Diallo Musaba has been pushing for a starting spot after impressing as a substitute, The Owls’ bench has featured promising options like Joe Beadle, Lewis Palmer, and Ryo Hatsuse.
Portsmouth’s injury list has been equally challenging, with Ibane Bowat, Jacob Farrell, Hayden Matthews, Alexander Milosevic, Paddy Lane, and Thomas Waddingham all unavailable. Right-back Jordan Williams has been sidelined with a hamstring problem.
Despite these absences, Pompey have maintained squad depth with quality substitutes including Marlon Pack, Sam Silvera, Elias Sörensen, and Kusini Yengi ready to make an impact when called upon.