Peterborough United manager Luke Williams has discussed new signing Harry Ashfield and provided key injury updates ahead of Saturday's home match against Sheffield Wednesday. The club, currently 17th in League One with four points from four games, will hope their latest addition can help turn around a difficult start to the season.
Williams expressed his delight at securing Ashfield in the closing minutes of Tuesday's transfer deadline. The 20-year-old midfielder is in contention to make his debut this weekend. "I’m very pleased to get Harry," Williams said. "We now have good competition, good quality and the right type of people." The manager described Ashfield as an 'action man' who can contribute in multiple roles.
Williams provided updates on four players who missed the midweek action. Owura Edwards, who limped out of Tuesday's first half holding his hamstring, is expected to be available for selection against Sheffield Wednesday. Defender Tom O'Connor, who has been carrying a knock, is also likely to be in contention. Williams noted O'Connor has done incredibly well to return to the pitch but admitted there will be some compromise in his readiness.
The news is less positive for Carl Johnston and Vernon Masara. Johnston jarred something after catching the floor and will be out for a bit longer. Masara is progressing well from an incredible clash but is still feeling some discomfort. Fans can monitor all player availability on the club's injuries page.
Ashfield's arrival brings the total of summer signings to eleven. Williams praised the work of director of football Barry Fry and co-owner Darragh MacAnthony in assembling the group. He highlighted the incredible energy, time and money they have invested. MacAnthony specifically shielded the manager and matchday staff from the complexities of deadline day, which Williams described as an incredible juggling act that required the medical team to be on high alert.
The new signing adds depth to a midfield that will be vital as Peterborough, one of the promotion favourites, looks to climb the standings. Their current position of 17th sees them six points behind league leaders Huddersfield Town after conceding seven goals in their opening four matches.
Sheffield Wednesday visit London Road sitting second in the table, while Peterborough seek their second win of the campaign. The match kicks off at 12:30pm on Saturday, September 5th. It forms part of a critical early-season run of games detailed on the fixtures schedule.
Williams believes the squad now has the right blend to compete. The manager's focus is on integrating Ashfield and managing the return of key players from injury. With a goal difference of minus five, shoring up the defence will be as important as adding attacking threat. The full squad details are available on the club's official squad page. Peterborough United host Sheffield Wednesday at the Weston Homes Stadium this Saturday.
