Sheffield Wednesday’s cup win has left Danny Rohl with one big headache ahead of transfer deadline day.
The head coach gifted opportunities to a number of fringe players in the win over Hull City, many of whom impressed.
With Charlie McNeill bagging a brace and Michael Smith making it two goal contributions from two games, Rohl will be left wondering how to handle the striker situation at Sheffield Wednesday.
Sean Fusire also gave him something to consider following his stellar performance, while his backline did nothing to suggest he doesn’t still need a new centre-back.
One player who has really given the Owls manager something to think about is Marvin Johnson.
It was only yesterday that reports had claimed that Oxford United and Derby County have ‘expressed an interest’ in signing the 33-year-old, and Wednesday could well be close to letting him leave.
However, Johnson really impressed against the Tigers and may have forced himself back into the picture.
Marvin Johnson has given Rohl a transfer headache
The veteran had the most touches in the Owls’ squad (69), completed more key passes than any player on the pitch (4) and also made four clearances, two tackles and won 100% of his headers.
Johnson received high praise for his performance at the MKM Stadium, with The Star awarding him an eight rating.
Journalist Alex Miller wrote: “Had plenty of the ball, particularly in the first half, and put in some excellent crosses rom the left. Played very much like a senior man. Other clubs are interested and if the Owls are weighing up letting him go, this will have been food for thought.”
Johnson still has the chance to earn his place back
Johnson looks set to become Max Lowe’s back-up this season, despite being a regular in the team in recent years.
Wednesday could have been willing to offload him if he didn’t want to spend the campaign as a second fiddle, while he could well leave on a free transfer next summer.
However, Rohl should really consider keeping him until the end of the season if he can keep up performances like that.
Lowe isn’t going to start every game in their extremely busy schedule, and there is nothing to say that Johnson couldn’t earn back his starting place if he impresses either.
The Owls may look to get his £10k-per-week wages off the books though, so it could come down to whether they can replace him with someone cheaper but more suitable.