Sheffield Wednesday injury latest ahead of Sunderland play-off as Owls sweat over Barry Bannan

Sunderland know they are just three games away from a potential return to the Championship as the League One play-offs draw closer. The Black Cats will take on Sheffield Wednesday over two-legs in a bid to book their place in the final against either MK Dons or Wycombe Wanderers on May 21.

Alex Neil's side are in form, but will face a tough task against the Owls - albeit with the memory of their 5-0 win over Darren Moore's men fresh in their minds. However, they also lost the away game at Hillsborough, so it's all to play for.

Wednesday have several injury concerns ahead of their trip to Wearside. Here is all you need to know about the current state of play at Hillsborough and the expected return dates for those currently on the sidelines.

The talismanic Owls skipper was taken off in the 82nd minute against Portsmouth after suffering a muscle injury. He will be assessed today. Bannan looked in good spirits with his family during the lap of appreciation and appeared to allay concerns with a post-match tweet.

He posted: “What a atmosphere today, (I) want to thank you all again; amazing love – play offs secured (such a) big performance from the boys again love this team. See you all Friday.”

"What’s the point in worrying now? We don’t know what’s going to happen and we might be jumping to conclusions. In a couple of days things can settle down and we’ll be able to give you a better idea."

Potentially Sunderland first leg

The strapping centre back has not featured in the last four matches since suffering a calf problem in the first half of their win at Milton Keynes Dons last month. He is back in full training.

"Harlee is fine. We just felt he wasn't quite ready.

"As the days go by, he is getting better and better. We