Gossip column: Sam Hutchinson likely to fill defensive void at Sheffield Wednesday

Here’s the latest from the rumour mill:

Sheffield Wednesday may be forced into the transfer market for a centre-back after both Michael Turner and Alex Lopez suffered recurring injuries in the midweek loss to MK Dons.

Meanwhile, Owls boss Carvalhal will look to rely on the versatile Sam Hutchinson to fill the void.

Bradford City manager Phil Parkinson has been promised the backing of the board to go out and build his squad in January – with his three loanees being his main priority.

Reece Burke, Lee Evans and Kyel Reid have all been integral for the Bantams this season, but are set to return to their parent clubs next month.

Doncaster Rovers boss Darren Ferguson is also keen to extend his loanee contracts and will look to keep Felipe Mattioni, Conor Grant and Craig Alcock at the club.

He is undecided on Ipswich’s Cameron Stewart however, who has been told he is surplus to requirements at Portman Road.

The Scot is adamant that there will be players leaving too, with Harry Forrester rumoured to be nearing the door.

It is believed that Sheffield United will look to prolong Leicester City loanee Dean Hammond’s stay at Bramall Lane in an anchorman capacity.

The 32-year-old worked with Adkins at Southampton and they are known to have an excellent relationship.

York City have shocked their fans by terminating the contracts of Jonathan Greening and Richard Cresswell.

Greening, 36, had recently agreed to register as a player at Jackie McNamara’s request but played only once, being sent off in the 6-0 away loss to Portsmouth.

Cresswell, 38, was Head of Football Operations and managed the club for the 2-1 away defeat to Crawley Town.

Former Leeds United skipper Dominic Matteo has urged boss Steve Evans to play Sam Byram. The right-back has been dropped amidst doubt over his future and much stalling over a new contract, but Matteo believes the best Leeds XI must play every game.

Leeds United’s eagerly-anticipated clash with Brighton & Hove Albion at the Amex Stadium, meanwhile, has been moved to Monday 29th February for live Sky Sports coverage.

And finally...

Harrogate Town are opening their turnstiles for free this weekend.

Supporters will be able to watch the Vanarama National League North clash versus Brackley Town at 3pm on Saturday with a gate of up to 1,500 expected.