Sheffield Wednesday old boy reveals what Owls have to do to make play-offs as he says Jos Luhukay's squad is 'as strong as any other in the Championship'
The former Hillsborough star turned Sky Sports pundit made the prediction ahead of tomorrow evening's clash with Middlesbrough, which is being screened live.
Sixth-placed Wednesday could go joint third with Leeds, for an evening at least, if they beat Tony Pulis' men in front of their own supporters and Hinchcliffe admits he has been impressed with boss Jos Luhukay.
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Hide AdThe Dutchman's transfer activity was limited in the summer when the Owls were placed under a transfer embargo for breaching league financial regulations, and Hinchcliffe said: "I think a lot of people looked at them last season and then saw the lack of arrivals in the summer and assumed it would be more of the same.
"But they didn't really need to sign a lot of players.
"They were hit so badly by injuries last season and they just needed to get a few of them back, because when they've got a full squad it's as strong as any in the Championship."
And one which Hinchcliffe believes, with a few tweaks, could claim a play-off berth at the end of the current campaign.
"It's such a flat league this season and there are so many teams that can easily finish top six," the defender, who also enjoyed spells at Manchester City and Everton, added.
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Hide Ad"Defence will be key and you do wonder if Wednesday concede a few too many goals to make a real push for the top two, but if they can tighten up a bit and deal with the expectation that will come from their improving performances then there's no reason they can't make the play-offs again."