It seems almost fantastical to write, but Sheffield Wednesday are genuine contenders for the play-offs in the Sky Bet Championship this season.

They've been through the mill somewhat this year thanks to Jos Luhukay's reign that went sour and financial concerns off of the pitch that have also distracted and, yet, they lie in wait for those above to slip-up.

Certainly, Steve Bruce has done a decent job so far in charge of the Owls, and the boosts keep on coming with Gary Hooper at last returning to training after setbacks pushing his return from injury backwards.

One of the sharper strikers at the club on form, he's still got the ability to make a real difference for the Owls and he is bound to be eager to get back in and try and aid this late play-off surge gathering pace.

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He must, though, be cautious in his excitement because, of course, after any long lay-off a return to action must be managed sensibly.

Fortunately for the Owls, as has not always been the case in recent seasons, they have other options up front that can allow Hooper's return to be managed.

Steven Fletcher is scoring goals, Lucas Joao has featured regularly - though he is carrying a knock right now - and the likes of Fernando Forestieri are fit too.

Hooper, then, can take his time to get fully back up to speed, as tempting as it'll be to get straight back into the thick of it, and that might well mean we see him back on a long run of playing time.