Sheffield Wednesday: Lucas Joao will be back in full training next week

Portugal international Lucas Joao is expected to return to full training next week, according to Owls boss Carlos Carvalhal.
Lucas JoaoLucas Joao
Lucas Joao

The forward, who has not featured since Wednesday’s draw at Brentford on August 27 due to a groin problem, is edging closer to a first-team comeback.

In recent weeks, Joao, recruited from Nacional in July 2015, has only been able to take part in light training.

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But speaking at his press briefing today, Carvalhal said: “Lucas is very, very near. I think he will probably train with us next week.”

Keiren Westwood is a big injury concern ahead of Saturday’s trip to Derby County. The goalkeeper missed Wednesday’s battling home win over Queens Park Rangers last week because of a back problem.

Carvalhal confirmed: “Keiren had a scan. It is clear. The exam didn’t show anything.

“He still has a little pain but we are monitoring him day by day and we hope that he can recover. We need all the players.

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“Of course, Keiren is an important player. I think he will probably play on Saturday and I hope he can as we need him.”

Should Westwood be ruled out, academy graduate Cameron Dawson is in line to keep his place in the side.

Joe Wildsmith (finger) and Marco Matias (hip) remain on the sidelines.