Former Owls captain Darren Purse has predicted an entertaining game on Saturday as Wednesday host Cardiff.
Experienced centre half Purse made over 100 appearances in a four-year spell at Cardiff before switching to Hillsborough in 2009, where he featured 71 times.
The 39-year-old, who now plays for National League South side Hayes and Yeading, has previewed the crunch end of the season clash that could prove decisive in the play-off mix.
He told swfc.co.uk: “It will be an entertaining game and there will be pressure on both sides.
“It’s a little bit like the reverse fixture I played in for Cardiff a few years ago on the last day when we just needed a point but Wednesday won the game 1-0.
“Sheffield Wednesday know they don’t need to win but they won’t go into it with that in mind.
“They’ll go into it with confidence, no reservations, the gap is at four points and the home form this season has been good.
“Cardiff are on a decent run and their results have kept them hanging on to the coattails of the play-offs. They are still in with a chance but have it all to do given Wednesday’s home form.”
With the Owls expecting their biggest league attendance of the season at Hillsborough, Purse believes that level of support can make all the difference.
“I was lucky enough to play in front of capacity crowds at Hillsborough both for and against Wednesday,” he recalled.
“The fans make a massive difference, it’s a great place to play football and I’d love to be there this weekend.”
A leader on and off the pitch, Purse has drawn on his experiences of the big games when there is plenty at stake and said:
“I always liked to keep things as normal as possible and keep it relaxed.
“No rash tackles, don’t let the pressure get to you because it can make some players do things out of character and just stay as calm as you can.”
He added: “I always take the time to look at how my old clubs are getting on and there are quite a few so it keeps me busy on a Saturday evening!
“But of course you always want them to do well and the majority have had good seasons and done well so hopefully a few of them will get the job done.”