Sheffield Wednesday defender Mark McGuinness being recalled by Cardiff City would be a ‘huge blow’, according to journalist Dom Howson.

The Lowdown: Return on the cards?

The Republic of Ireland youth international arrived at the Hillsborough Stadium over the summer after putting pen to paper on a season-long loan from the Bluebirds.

Darren Moore quickly made the centre-back a regular feature in League One, but after an impressive start to the season, recent reports have suggested that the Welsh outfit are set to recall the 22-year-old before the end of the window.

The Latest: Howson’s reaction

Taking to Twitter, Howson was gutted to hear the news that McGuinness could potentially depart, though insisted that finding a suitable successor has to be high on the club’s priority list. He wrote:

“McGuinness leaving is a huge blow. #SWFC have to bring in two centre-backs this month to ensure they have got enough cover at the back for the rest of the season.

“I'm sure DM and the recruitment team will have been working hard behind the scenes to line up a MM replacement.”

The Verdict: Setback for Moore

McGuinness has been integral at the heart of Wednesday’s defence this campaign so it would be a huge setback for Moore to lose him in the weeks ahead.

The Owls star currently averages 5.4 aerial wins and 3.1 clearances per league game and is an absolute rock standing at 6 foot 3 (WhoScored).

The Yorkshire side won’t want to let the Slough-born talent leave, but it’s important that they do make a couple of new signings in case he is set to return to the Championship.