THE BIG MATCH-UP

within the squad.”

Payne has played 19 times (nine starts) and Brown six times (five starts). Both have scored three goals.

“Izzy has made an impact since arriving,” said Wagner.

“He has settled in fast and it is as if he has been with us the whole season.”

Wagner hopes Tommy Smith and Joe Lolley will train as normal on Friday.

Right-back Smith took a knock to a knee against Leeds.

And Lolley has had a phased return to training since playing for the Under 23s in their win at Crewe Alexandra on Monday.

Martin Cranie has signed a 12-month contract extension at Huddersfield Town.

The versatile 30-year-old, who has made 11 appearances for David Wagner’s side this season, now has terms to summer 2018.

Head coach David Wagner describes him as “a very important player in our squad”.

The boss added: “He has been excellent in the games he has played this season and last, making him a real competitor for the right back position alongside Tommy Smith.

“It is perfect for me to have two high-quality players who can both play. His ability to play different positions is valuable too.

“Martin is a great professional and knows the Sky Bet Championship very well too, which has been very helpful as the players who joined us this season got used to the division.

“He’s a very important character in the dressing room.

“I have always said that keeping our good players at the club is just as important as bringing new ones in, so I’m very happy.”

Former England Under 21 international Cranie arrived at Town in the summer of 2015 after a successful trial period, having previously played well over 200 games in the Championship for the likes of Southampton, Coventry City and Barnsley.

He has made 35 starts and 15 substitute appearances during 18 months at PPG Canalside, which includes five starts and six games as a substitute in the current 2016/17 campaign.