Sheffield Wednesday's late play-off hopes were dealt a frustrating blow with the news that Steven Fletcher has been ruled out of their game against Stoke City this weekend, according to the Sheffield Star. 

Fletcher has been impressive for the Owls this season and has hit a good run of form recently which has seen him fire the Owls into play-off contention.

He picked up a groin injury in their win over Blackburn Rovers before the international break, and the game against the Potters is going to come too soon for the Scotsman who has hit five goals in his last six league games.

But this latest injury blow could be a blessing in disguise for Fletcher's Sheffield Wednesday team-mate who will be keen to stake a strong enough claim for a regular starting spot in Steve Bruce's squad.

Sam Winnall recently returned to the fold after a lengthy spell on the sidelines with an injury problem of his own and will have a point to prove.

He has been limited to just one start all season, but has been used as a substitute in recent weeks, which will be frustrating for the former Barnsley man.

That start came last week, when he partnered Fletcher up-front in the win over Blackburn, but he was substituted before the hour mark.

But with Fletcher now out of action, the weight will be shifted to Winnall to provide the goals to fire the Owls into the top six with just eight games remaining.

With Lucas Joao still sidelined, Winnall needs to grasp this opportunity with both hands, and will fancy his chances of finding the back of the net against a frail-looking Stoke defence.

This could be his last chance in the side though, as Fletcher is not expected to be out of action for a considerable amount of time, so it's vital that Winnall makes a good impression to Steve Bruce.