GLENN Loovens is looking forward to locking horns with ex-team-mate Gary Madine at Hillsborough tonight.

The Sheffield Wednesday skipper is anticipating a bruising battle with Madine, who signed on a free transfer from the Owls last summer.

“We know what he is all about,” said the Dutchman, who played under Neil Lennon at Celtic. “He is a tough striker to handle. He’s very good in the air and that’s one of the best parts of his game so we have to make sure we cover each other well and he doesn’t head anything into any dangerous areas.”

Loovens isn’t reading anything into Wanderers’ league position, or their FA Cup labours at Eastleigh on Saturday.

“It is important we keep our momentum going at Hillsborough," he said.

"It will be a tough game because they will fight for everything. We are in a position where we need to win so we don't lose ground on the top six.

“It will not be an easy game. They are not easy to break down. They don't lose too many games. There are a lot of draws in there. It will be tough but we are up for it.

“They are down there and need to win to get out of trouble. Sometimes these games are the hardest.”