Oldham Athletic v Sheffield Wednesday: Repentant Coke determined to make amends after earning Owls recall

Coke was sent off for a rash challenge in only the third game under new manager Gary Megson, at Tranmere Rovers.

He was duly suspended for three games and has started the last two games on the bench with Megson opting instead for teenager Liam Palmer in the heart of midfield.

Tonight, against Oldham Athletic at Boundary Park, however, Coke is set to return to the side as a reward for a decent second half display against Plymouth Argyle which was capped by an excellent goal.

“It has been very frustrating being unable to play under the new gaffer and I know I let the boys down by getting sent off,” said Coke. “It was not an ideal time to get suspended but you can only learn from your mistakes.”

Coke, 24, collected the fourth red card of his career for a two-footed challenge on midfielder John Welsh.

“I always give 100 per cent and I tried to get the ball – but I don’t know what I was thinking going in with two feet,” he recalled. “It was a silly mistake, it cost me, but now I need to put that right.

The Owls, eight points clear of the relegation zone, will be looking to bounce back from a 4-2 defeat that prompted manager Megson to hold a one hour inquest in the dressing room.

Coke said: “What was said will stay ‘in-house’ but it was a good meeting and it was good to get things off the chest. All the players need to look at themselves and we all need to improve.”

Defender Lewis Buxton has suffered another setback in his bid to return to action after a hamstring injury so Megson has named an unchanged squad.

Last six games: Oldham DLLDLL, Sheff Weds LLLDWL

Last time: Oldham 1 Sheff Weds 1, April 9, 2005, League One.

Referee: E Ilderton (Tyne & Wear).