Sheffield Wednesday 1 - 2 Queens Park Rangers

Virus victims back for Hoops visit

Updated: November 6, 2009, 1:52 PM UK

Sheffield Wednesday skipper Darren Purse is one of five players who will return to the squad for the home match with QPR.

Purse, fellow central defender Mark Beevers, midfielder Sean McAllister, striker Akpo Sodje and winger Etienne Esajas all missed last Saturday's draw at Bristol City due to a virus, but are back in contention.

Midfielder Tommy Miller, replaced in the 65th minute last week, and unused substitute Francis Jeffers were affected, but have also shaken off the illness.

Manager Brian Laws has several selection dilemmas for the visit of in-form Rangers. Frank Simek made his first league start of the season at full-back, while Richard Hinds and Lewis Buxton formed a new partnership at the heart of defence that proved highly effective.

Midfielder Michael Gray will miss out again due to a hamstring strain, while Laws has no other new injury or suspension problems.

Gavin Mahon and Damion Stewart are back in the QPR squad for the trip.

Midfielder and stand-in skipper Mahon has missed the last two games after picking up a hip injury in training, and centre-half Stewart sat out the midweek draw against Crystal Palace with an ankle problem.

Mahon should reclaim his place in midfield with Rangers having picked up just one point in his absence, but Stewart may have to settle for a place on the bench with Fitz Hall (groin) returning against Palace.

Rangers are still without defender Matt Connolly, although he has resumed full training after finally recovering from glandular fever and could be back in a fortnight.

Lee Cook, Alessandro Pellicori (both knee), Angelo Balanta (hernia) and captain Martin Rowlands (cruciate) remain sidelined.