Sheffield Wednesday: Win over Leeds United could 'guarantee' play-off place, says former Owl

Sky Sports pundit Andy Hinchcliffe felt that the Owls could have challenged for automatic promotion this season, however off the back of Tuesday's defeat to Brentford at Hillsborough, he says Wednesday will have to settle for one of four play-off spots.

The ex-England international described this upcoming Yorkshire derby, which will be screened live by Sky Sports on Saturday afternoon, as 'very important' and that a win for either side could 'guarantee' a top six finish.

"I thought (Sheffield Wednesday) could put a run together with the squad they assembled under Carlos Carvalhal," wrote Hinchcliffe on skysports.com

"But after losing to Brentford, they probably have to realise it's going to be about getting promoted through the play-offs. They missed out in the play-off final last season so they have that heartbreak to make up for.

"The Leeds v Wednesday game is about saying, 'If we win this one, we are pretty much guaranteed to be in the play-offs.' They won't completely relax but they will be able to budget through to the end of the season and give some players a rest.

"I think it's very important both teams go for the win in this game. It could put some distance between themselves and Fulham because Norwich, Derby and Barnsley look out of the picture now.

"So it's a very important game - not in terms of chasing the top two - but in cementing a play-off place."