Nathaniel Chalobah was one of four players not to make their debut for Sheffield Wednesday over the weekend.
Charlie McNeill was an unused substitute against Plymouth Argyle, while Chalobah, Ben Hamer and Ike Ugbo were all left out of the squad.
Hamer’s absence was expected, with Pierce Charles currently occupying the back-up goalkeeper role. Meanwhile, paperwork prevented Ugbo from making his second debut for Sheffield Wednesday.
Chalobah’s non-attendance was unexplained, with the midfielder having featured in a behind-closed-doors friendly a week earlier.
It is assumed that Chalobah is injured or is yet to reach full fitness, having seen his game-time last season limited.
Chalobah left impressed by Sheffield Wednesday fans
The 29-year-old hasn’t explained why he missed the Owls’ opener, but did take to Instagram to send a message to fans.
Chalobah shared a photo in the stands at Hillsborough, with the caption: “Atmosphere was 🔥😤. Can’t wait.”
Wednesday’s win over the Pilgrims was a brilliant taste of what is to come for Chalobah, who will have been chomping at the bit to get on the pitch.
It is unclear whether the former West Brom man will feature against Hull City in the Carabao Cup midweek, but fans can surely expect him to at least make his debut against Sunderland.
Danny Rohl will have been largely impressed with his team over the weekend, but a trip to Wearside may call for Chalobah’s presence.
Plymouth were very poor in defeat and the Owls were able to spend most of the game on the attack, with Josh Windass and Svante Ingelsson both helping out in the middle of the park when needed.
Such an attacking team may struggle against the Black Cats though, who opened their account with a 2-0 win over Cardiff City.
Chalobah may be brought in to help firm up the midfield and keep out the likes of Jobe Bellingham and Alan Browne, but who will drop out is uncertain.
Ingelsson enjoyed a tremendous debut yesterday and will be dying to keep his place, while Windass made it four goals in four competitive appearances.
Rohl will face a huge dilemma following the midweek cup tie, but it is a really good dilemma to have.
Fans are likely to be able to figure out what his plans are based on who starts against Hull, while we can surely expect the likes of Hamer and McNeill to make their debuts.