SAM Vokes starts his third game of the season – and first under Sean Dyche – with Charlie Austin ruled out through injury.

The striker has been an ever-present since the opening Championship game of the season but has made all of his appearances since August 25 from the bench.

However, Austin's absence has created an opening for Wales striker Vokes as Burnley begin the new year at Sheffield Wednesday.

Martin Paterson, who was an early replacement for top scorer Austin in Saturday's home defeat to Leicester, retains his place in the side, replacing Keith Treacy in the line-up.

Brian Stock returns to the starting line-up for the first time in just over three weeks to replace Dean Marney, who is not named in the squad.

January signing Dane Richards has not yet received international clearance after joining from MLS side Vancouver Whitecaps.

SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY: Chris Kirkland, Lewis Buxton, Anthony Gardner, Michail Antonio, Joe Mattock, Rhys McCabe, Kieran Lee, Mamady Sidibe, Jeremy Helan, David Prutton, Miguel Llera.

Subs: Stephen Bywater, Martin Taylor, Gary Madine, Jermaine Johnson, Chris O'Grady, Paul Corry, Daniel Jones.

BURNLEY: Lee Grant, Kieran Trippier, Danny Lafferty, Michael Duff, Jason Shackell, Chris McCann, Ross Wallace, Sam Vokes, Martin Paterson, Danny Ings, Brian Stock.

Subs: Brian Jensen, David Edgar, Luke O'Neill, Cameron Stewart, Marvin Bartley, Keith Treacy, Kevin Long.