George Hirst won't be given a first-team opportunity even though he is training with the first-team.

Disagreements over a new contract have led to Hirst's progress faltering because he has been denied first-team opportunities.

It appeared as if the situation was changing because he started training with the first-team and played for the Under 23s in their last two matches.

Any hope for Wednesday fans over this issue was ended by Jos Luhukay though because he made it clear that nothing has changed in regards to his availability with the first-team when asked about it: "There is a different situation and everyone knows that."

Luhukay was quick to point out that the contract situation was the reason as well rather than indicating that it was due to form or some other reason why he wasn't picked: "We are not now speaking about the football. We are speaking about the personal situation between him and the club."

Sheffield Wednesday will be desperate for a win against Bolton at the weekend because they are now involved in a relegation dogfight and are struggling to pick up any points. They have lost their last four straight games and have seven points in the last ten games.

The Verdict

This contract situation has hung over the player and the club for the past season. It appears all but confirmed that he will leave in the summer, so it's strange that the club isn't willing to utilise him for the last few months.

Having an experienced striker to work off would be the ideal foil for him with Jordan Rhodes, Lucas Joao and Atdhe Nuhiu all offering something different out of the strikers available.

Wednesday are struggling for points and Luhukay is willing to use youth players, so it would be a shame if he doesn't give Hirst a try at some point in the remaining games.