Our Brighton and Hove FC correspondent Patrick Gleeson looks at the Seagulls’ chances of coming back from Sheffield with three points.
Albion travel to Hillsborough this weekend to tackle Sheffield Wednesday, and Gus Poyet and his men will be hoping to replicate the 3-0 victory over the Owls back in September.
The Seagulls sit 5 points behind 6th at present and need to start converting draws into wins in order to make a real push for one of the four play-off spots.
Sheffield, on the other hand, are still lingering near the foot of the table in 20th spot - just 4 points from safety.
Team News
New signing Matthew Upson is likely to go straight into the starting line-up after securing his loan move from Stoke City until the end of the season.
Bruno could be available for selection again after his spell on the sidelines with a groin injury, whereas Leonardo Ulloa is ready to make his league debut for the club.
Leroy Lita is likely to retain his place for the hosts after his debut goal against Charlton last week.
Form
Wednesday are unbeaten in their last 3 in the league after impressive wins away at Hull and Charlton, and a solid 0-0 draw with Wolves. Owls boss Dave Jones will be looking for another determined display to continue their climb away from the bottom.
Wednesday last 5: D L W D W
Albion are also on a good run of form at current and go into the game unbeaten in the last 4. Only a narrow 3-2 defeat at home to Premier League outfit Arsenal could puncture their hopes of completing January without a loss.
Albion last 5: L W W D D
Head to Head:
When the two met at the Amex earlier in the season, goals from Wayne Bridge, Craig Mackail-Smith and Will Buckley saw Albion romp to a 3-0 triumph and claim top spot in the Championship.
Players to watch
Leroy Lita (Wednesday)
The journeyman striker opened his Owls account last weekend with a neatly-taken goal against Charlton Athletic. Lita possesses the speed and strength to cause serious problems to the Albion backline.
Leonardo Ulloa (Albion)
The big Argentine forward made his debut for the Seagulls in the FA Cup tie against Arsenal. He made an instant impression with his tireless work rate and his awareness on the ball, and scored a low, diving header to level the game in the 62nd minute.
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