Alex Neil is set to leave the decision as late as possible regarding Nathan Broadhead’s fitness.

The second leg of Sunderland’s play-off semi-final with Sheffield Wednesday takes place on Monday evening.

The Black Cats take a 1-0 lead to Hillsborough, having dominated large portions of the first meeting between the two teams.

The Everton loanee missed the first leg due to a muscle problem, but Neil is hoping the forward can prove his fitness in time for Monday evening’s clash.

The 24-year old is the only injury concern in the squad going into the trip to face Darren Moore’s side.

"Everyone seems to be OK,” said Neil, via Sunderland Echo.

"The lads were in yesterday afternoon, it’s always difficult after a night game in terms of your sleep.

"But they’ve had a good rest now, they’ll be back in this afternoon and then we’ll take a view on how they are.

"But certainly there were no additional issues for us as of yesterday.”

Ahead of the first leg, Neil claimed that the forward will be given a chance to prove his fitness going into the second leg.

“He will have a chance for Monday. Unfortunately tonight was too soon," added the 40-year old.

"We will assess him over the next few days and make a call.”

 

 

Sunderland will be looking to maintain their advantage over Wednesday to earn a place in the play-off final in Wembley.

Broadhead’s possible return could be a decisive factor in this evening’s clash, with the Everton player having scored 10 goals in League One this season, from 20 appearances.

The Owls won the league fixture between the two earlier in the campaign, claiming a 3-0 win over Sunderland.

The clash kicks off at 7.45pm.

The Verdict

Despite the concern over Broadhead, it is encouraging for Sunderland that they have no other injury issues going into such a big game.

Neil will be hopeful Broadhead can make the game, and even if he only makes a substitute appearance that could still prove vital.

The Black Cats should fancy their chances of progressing going off their performance in the first leg.

But the team will still need to be at the sharpest in front of what will be a packed and lively Hillsborough crowd.