Sunderland v Sheffield Wednesday: Boss argues Barry Bannan as owls sweat over captain’s fitness UK News

Neil, however, seems to think Wednesday’s skipper will be ready for the Stadium of Light, but has been coy about his own injured striker Nathan Broadhead.

Neil also spoke of the big crowd expected on both legs, adding: “Listen, I’m probably going to offend a few teams here – but they’re probably the two best supported teams in the league… They’ve both been in the Championship and in the Premier League not so long ago.

“It’s going to be a tough match and it’s going to be a great atmosphere. Hopefully players can handle this and do themselves justice.

Only time will tell if Bannan and Broadhead will play Friday night’s fixture – or even Monday – but fans of both clubs will be delighted to see their side have as many players available as possible as they aim for a place at Wembley.