Brentford v Sheffield Weds: Drenthe pushing for start as Owls look for lift

The 27-year-old former Everton and Real Madrid winger has always possessed obvious talents, but he has had to bide his time at Hillsborough after arriving on loan from Reading.

He is yet to start in Owls colours, but in a 45-minute outing against Watford – the Championship’s new leaders – on Saturday he certainly impressed.

Loovens was full of praise for his fellow Dutchman after the 3-0 defeat – which stretches Wednesday’s winless run to five matches.

He twice came close to handing the lacklustre Owls a lifeline goal, while his teasing crosses and set-piece delivery impressed.

His performance certainly gives coach Stuart Gray a selection problem on the right wing for tonight’s trip to Brentford, with regular incumbent Chris Maguire having served his one-match suspension.

Everton loanee Hallam Hope started on Saturday, but failed to impress, so tonight it looks like a straight battle for a starting spot between Maguire and Drenthe, who has made five substitute appearances for the Owls.

“Roysten did really well when he came on, he made the difference,” said Loovens. “He looked dangerous with every ball he got; that was maybe the only positive from the game.

“He’s not a young boy, has played at the highest level, nobody needs to tell him how to play football. He has showed it before and showed on Saturday what he is capable of.”

Loovens is expecting a reaction tonight from Wednesday after a poor display against Watford.

“We have had better days,” Loovens admitted. “The first half was poor, we didn’t defend well, or press well. We were second best all over the pitch, which resulted in us being 2-0 down at half-time.

“Brentford will be tough, they are a good side, especially at home.”

Sam Hutchinson (knee) and Lewis Buxton (knee) both miss out for Wednesday.

Last six: Brentford LLWLWD, Sheffield Wednesday WLLDDL.

Referee: O Langford (West Midlands).

Last time: Brentford 1 Sheffield Wednesday 2; April 28 2012; League One.