Sheffield Wednesday face a tough task on Monday when they travel to north to face high-flying Middlesbrough at tea-time live on Sky Sports.
The Owls picked up their 2nd win in a row on Boxing Day to retain their position just 1 point off the play-off places but Carlos Carvalhal could make changes for his sides 2nd game in 3 days.
Sam Hutchinson was substituted late on against Birmingham and his fitness is vital. The defensive midfielder has performed admirably when filling in at centre-back of late and with Michael Turner and Tom Lees not yet fit to play Wednesday are short of options to partner Glenn Loovens in the heart of the defence.
Midfielder Ross Wallace also limped out of the Boxing Day win in the 2nd half and so Jeremy Helan, Jose Semedo, Modou Sougou and Lewis McGugan could all come into contention to replace him if needs be. Helan or Rhoys Wiggins could be called upon if Carvalhal decides that left-back Daniel Pudil is in need of a rest and likewise Liam Palmer could be on hand to cover for Jack Hunt on the right.
Owls number one Keiren Westwood wasn't in the squad against Birmingham but if he is fit he is likely to replace Joe Wildsmith in goal. Portugal striker Lucas Joao will also be hoping for a recall.
Middlesbrough have the advantage of having not played on Boxing Day after their fixture at Blackburn was postponed due to the weather. Although this means that they will be better rested and more prepared for this fixture the Owls will not have to face experienced striker David Nugent as he will now serve the final match of a 3-game ban.
The home side have no recent injury issues to concern them and so other than Nugent they have a virtually settled squad to choose from.
Wednesday have lost only 2 of their last 17 games in the Championship but have only managed 2 away wins from 11 attempts, losing 4 times.
Middlesbrough are unbeaten in 6 Championship games, winning 5 of these and they have won 8 of 11 home matches, losing just 1 game to date at the Riverside Stadium this season. Their last match resulted in an impressive 3-0 win at previously unbeaten Brighton, they have kept a clean sheet in 8 of their last 9 league games and they have only conceded 2 goals at home in the league.
Wednesday won 3-2 on their last visit to Boro early last season but were beaten 3-1 when the 2 teams last met at Hillsborough back in August – the Owls only home defeat to date this season.