Speaking in his pre-match conference ahead of Sheffield Wednesday's game against Cheltenham Town, manager Darren Moore revealed that Reece James would miss the game through injury.

The Blackpool loanee, who has been a regular in Moore's side as a centre-back this season, was forced off through injury in Tuesday night's 2-1 defeat against league leaders Plymouth Argyle.

The 28-year-old has featured in eight of the Owls' League One fixtures so far this season, averaging a solid 6.53 rating from WhoScored for his performances, with the average brought down after his red card against Peterborough earlier in the season.

Moore praised James' versatility and ability earlier in the season, saying:

“He was excellent. He showed tenacity, determination and aggression. He has got a lovely left foot on him and gives us that balance on the left-hand side. He has been superb. He is someone that I worked with at Doncaster. He has got wonderful versatility.”

It looked as if it would be touch and go on whether or not the defender would make the game against the Robins, but Moore confirmed that he wouldn't be risked, with Sheffield Star reporter Joe Crann sharing his quotes on Twitter.

He said:

"He's not good. We think we need a longer prognosis with him. We are taking an extra 24 hours with him. We don't think he will make this game.

"I hope it is bruising. It is about getting him settled down."

Either Dominic Iorfa or Mark McGuinness will likely replace James in the starting lineup, but neither offer his attacking qualities, as James has played most of his career as a marauding full-back or even a winger, whereas the other two are more natural centre-backs.

He has also averaged the second-most tackles in Wednesday's squad this season, which emphasises his consistency at the back.

Three points are a must against Cheltenham if the Owls want to keep pace with Plymouth and Ipswich at the top, so Moore will no doubt be gutted to have one of his most consistent players out injured.