Olaf Kobacki and Michael Ihiekwe, whose much-anticipated returns were meant to bolster Sheffield Wednesday’s ranks, remain conspicuously absent from the matchday squad—raising eyebrows and fueling speculation among fans and pundits alike. Despite initial optimism, neither was included in Wednesday evening’s electrifying 1-0 victory over Derby County at Hillsborough, a clash that left supporters on the edge of their seats.
Kobacki, who has been sidelined since October with a frustrating long-term injury, was earmarked for a pre-Christmas comeback. However, his road to recovery has been anything but straightforward. A surprise appearance on the bench during the Boxing Day trip to Middlesbrough—prompted by a last-minute illness sidelining Anthony Musaba—provided a flicker of hope, but it appears the Pole still has a steep climb ahead before he’s match-fit.
Ihiekwe, meanwhile, has had an equally turbulent season, last featuring in a league match back in September. Complications from illness have further derailed his attempts to regain a foothold in the team, leaving many to question whether his absence has contributed to the Owls’ defensive struggles. The prospect of his return has become a hot topic, with fans longing for a player of his caliber to steady the ship.
Head coach Danny Röhl addressed their absences with a measured tone but didn’t shy away from the hard truths. “There’s been no major setback, but their readiness is still far from what we need,” Röhl explained. “Championship football demands intensity, and right now, neither Olaf nor Michael is prepared to meet that standard. We’ve been navigating a whirlwind Christmas schedule, and recovery, rather than rigorous training, has been our priority.”
The Owls’ injury-ravaged squad has left little room for easing players back into action, and Röhl made it clear that risking Ihiekwe, who could barely manage 20 minutes of play, or Kobacki, who is yet to rebuild his match fitness, would be unwise. “At the moment, we need players who can give us 90 minutes,” he stated bluntly.
The absence of the duo underscores the challenges Sheffield Wednesday faces in juggling injuries, illnesses, and a punishing fixture list. For now, the hopes of fans rest on Röhl’s promise that both players are being carefully primed for a return—though patience is wearing thin as the team fights to climb the Championship table.
