Both Wednesday and the Black Cats find themselves in good form in recent weeks, and it’s going to be a difficult encounter for the two sides at the Stadium of Light when they lock horns on Friday evening.
Darren Moore and Alex Neil haven't been afraid to make changes during their spells at their respective clubs, and it’s likely that that will be the case again this weekend – even if it’s more of a forced change than a tactical one.
Wednesday are waiting to hear about Barry Bannan’s fitness, while Sunderland aren’t sure whether Nathan Broadhead will be ready to play or not, and it may be that neither is passed fit for the first leg of the play-off semifinals – which would come as a blow for their managers.
But if Bannan does make it, here’s how our Owls writer, Joe Crann, thinks the team could line up...
5. Jack Hunt - RWB
He's been excellent for weeks now, and has hardly put a foot wrong all season to be honest. Has been a tremendous signing for Wednesday, and I'd be very surprised not to see him start against the Black Cats.
Photo: Steve Ellis
6. Massimo Luongo - CM
Without a doubt one of the first names on the teamsheet now. Wednesday have a better chance of winning with him on the pitch, and his return to fitness has been a key factor in the Owls' turnaround in form.
Photo: Steve Ellis
7. George Byers - CM
Arguably the best player on the pitch for Wednesday against Portsmouth, and - like Luongo - his arrival at full fitness has been big for the Owls. He's formed a really nice trio in the centre of the park, and there's no reason to leave him out.
Photo: Steve Ellis
8. Barry Bannan - CM
Now this one depends, doesn't it... Obviously if he's fit then there's no way that Bannan doesn't start for Wednesday - but if he's not, then there's a choice to be made. The smart money would be on Callum Paterson or Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, however Moore certainly didn't rule his skipper out just yet.
Photo: Steve Ellis