Sheffield Wednesday manager Henrik Pedersen has confirmed that Liam Cooper and Callum Slattery are available for selection this weekend after their absences from the midweek Carabao Cup defeat to Wolves. The update was provided by Pedersen in a press conference covered by The Star on Tuesday, offering clarity on the squad's fitness ahead of the FA Cup clash with Bromley.
Pedersen stated that both senior players were rested for specific reasons. "Liam, he has trained today, so he's fully fit," the Wednesday boss said. "And Slatt also trained today, but Slatt has run so many kilometres in the first games." Cooper had been managing minor issues after playing 69 minutes against Bradford City, while Slattery's omission was purely preventative.
What is the latest on other injuries?
The manager also provided news on several other players currently sidelined. New signing Jordi Liongola faces a spell out with a hamstring problem, though Pedersen indicated the issue is not expected to keep the right-sided player out for months. Defender Di'Shon Bernard is making progress in his recovery from a long-term absence but is not yet ready for first-team action. The same applies to George Brown.
More concerning is the situation with midfielder Tyler Onyango, who could be ruled out for the remainder of the campaign. The club's current injury list, which fans can monitor on our injuries page, shows the impact on squad depth. Meanwhile, assessments continue on loanee Harry Gray, who was substituted with a suspected broken nose, and Sil Swinkels, who came off with a hamstring concern during the cup match.
How does this affect the squad for Bromley?
With Cooper and Slattery back in contention, Pedersen has more options for the FA Cup first round tie at Hillsborough. Cooper's experience at centre-back is important for a defence that has conceded 12 goals in the opening 10 Championship matches. Slattery's energy in midfield has been a feature of the early season; he has started 8 of the 10 league games so far. Their availability is a boost as Wednesday look to advance in the cup and build momentum.
The fixture against National League side Bromley represents a chance to rotate and give minutes to players who need them. You can view the full schedule, including this cup tie and the upcoming league match at home to Middlesbrough on September 14th, on our fixtures page. The squad's overall fitness will be key during a busy period.
Where do the Owls stand in the league?
Sheffield Wednesday's primary focus remains the Championship, where they currently sit 18th in the table. The team has recorded 3 wins, 3 draws, and 4 losses from their first 10 games, giving them 12 points. They are 6 points above the relegation zone but also 8 points adrift of the playoff places. Maintaining a fit and competitive squad is essential for climbing the standings.
Key performers like captain Barry Bannan, who has created 24 chances this season, will need support from a fully-fit group. The return of influential figures like Cooper helps solidify a defence that will be tested in the coming weeks. The next league game after the cup is a significant Yorkshire derby against Middlesbrough.
Pedersen's update, first reported by The Star, provides necessary clarity for supporters. The manager must now decide his starting eleven for the weekend, balancing cup progression with league priorities. Sheffield Wednesday host Bromley at Hillsborough on Saturday, September 7th, in the FA Cup first round.
