Sheffield Wednesday: Owls forward may start against Seagulls

The Portuguese forward, a big-money summer signing from Nacional, has started just once this calendar year, having recovered from a hernia problem.

Matias, who has netted twice in 13 appearances, was an unused substitute in Saturday's home defeat to Rotherham United.

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Speaking at his press briefing today, Carvalhal said: "Marco is near to playing. He is near to playing.

"He had surgery. He had a big problem. At the beginning of the season, we played a different system.

"Since Marco has comeback, we have played a different formation that he has never played before. Playing 4-4-2 is a little different to him.

"He's working very hard and is more ready than he was two or three weeks ago. He's a player who could be involved in the 18 tomorrow."

Carvalhal has no fresh injuries to contend with as his Wednesday side look to halt their four-match winless run.

Sam Hutchinson is expected to start, having shrugged off a knee problem, while Lucas Joao is pushing for a first-team recall after an impressing second half showing versus the Millers.

The Owls are seeking to get their faltering promotion campaign back on track at fourth-placed Brighton.

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