Mixed Feelings For Deon

Wednesday striker Deon Burton looks set to avoid a suspension for his sending-off on the Owls pre-season tour of Holland - but could be sidelined with an injury.

Burton was sent off for abusive language towards a match official during the Owls' trip of Holland and was expected to miss the opening two games of the season, but an FA spokesperson has revealed that the only sending off in friendly matches that carries a suspension in to the league would be for violent conduct.

And although Brian Laws is yet to get official confirmation from the FA, Burton is set to get the green light to feature in the Owls' opening games - as long as he recovers from a knee injury.

'We are awaiting a formal translation. Our understanding is that the sending-off was for foul and abusive language, which during our season would mean a two-match ban,' an FA spokesman told The Sheffield Star.

'But the only sendings-off in pre-season friendlies that lead to a suspension for subsequent first-team games are those for serious foul play or violent conduct.'

But although the former Derby and Portsmouth hitman looks set to avoid a suspension, unlike midfielder Chris Brunt who is set to miss three of the Owls' opening games, Burton could be out for other reasons after picking up a knee injury.

The Owls' joint top scorer from last season is set to miss the friendly with Birmingham City tomorrow and the club are yet to know whether he'll be available for the season opener at Ipswich next Saturday.