Sheffield Wednesday forward Jordan Rhodes is hopeful the international break will give his club teammates a chance to “be ready to come out of the blocks” when they return to league action at the start of April, reports the Yorkshire Post.

Rhodes arrived at Hillsborough during the January transfer window, with the aim of helping Wednesday to promotion from the Sky Bet Championship.

Despite Wednesday sitting sixth in the league, and remaining well on course for the end of season Play-Offs, their form has been patchy over recent weeks.

Carlos Carvalhal’s side have picked up just one victory in their last six fixtures, and back-to-back defeats against Aston Villa and Reading has left the Owls looking over their shoulder, as Fulham sit just one-point behind them in the league table.

Rhodes, who is currently away with the Scotland squad for their clashes with Canada and Slovenia, told the Yorkshire Post: “It is a two-week break now (from the Championship) and whether that is welcome or not, it is what it is. There is no getting round it.

“I guess the break will be a time to reflect and dust ourselves down. Get rid of whatever bumps and bruises we do have. Then, the squad can regroup and be ready to come out of the blocks against Barnsley in a local derby.”

Following the international break, Wednesday begin their run-in with two clashes against fellow Yorkshire sides, Barnsley and Rotherham United, where they will be looking to move clear of seventh-placed Fulham.

Wednesday fans… Are you confident your side can hold onto their place in the Play-Offs? Let us know in the comments!