Sheffield Wednesday goalkeeper Joe Wildsmith has recently made a long-awaited return to action, having featured for the Owls' under 23's side. 

Wildsmith was certainly pleased to get much-needed minutes under his belt heading into the New Year, as he posted a message to supporters on

/B6DrLm3nwIo/">Instagram.

The shot-stopper also thanked Sheffield Wednesday's medical department for their role in his recovery.

Wildsmith made 29 appearances for Sheffield Wednesday in the 2017/18 season, but didn't feature at all for the Owls in last year's league campaign through injury.

But he'll be pleased to get back into action heading into the festive period, and will surely be doing everything he can to prove his worth to Garry Monk.

With Cameron Dawson and Keiren Westwood occupying the spots in the first team squad at the moment though, it seems hard to believe that Wildsmith could challenge the pair for a starting spot anytime soon.

So, with his recent return from a lengthy injury lay-off, Wildsmith could be tempted by a loan move, although it remains to be seen as to whether there is any interest in his services heading into the January transfer window.

Sheffield Wednesday are next in action when they take on Bristol City in the early kick-off on Saturday, where it will be a tough test for Monk's side against one of their promotion-chasing rivals.

How much do you remember about the 2014/15 season for Sheffield Wednesday? Test your knowledge in our quiz! 

The Verdict: 

It's going to be tough for him to force his way into Garry Monk's plans for the first team this season.

I'm not doubting that Wildsmith is a good goalkeeper at all, but with Cameron Dawson keeping Keiren Westwood out of the starting XI at the moment, Wildsmith's opportunities are going to be hard to come by.

But for now, he'll be delighted to get back into competitive action, and it certainly wouldn't come as a surprise to see him sent out on loan in the January transfer window to find regular game time in senior football.