Middlesbrough v Sheffield Wednesday: Tudgay intends to finish the job for Owls

The Owls striker has struggled to find the net this term and admits that his tally of just nine goals has been a major disappointment.

But Tudgay, who was a target for Premier League side Burnley last summer, knows that goals in the final four games will be priceless if they secure the club's survival.

Speaking ahead of today's trip to Middlesbrough, Tudgay said: "If I score in these final games, it will make up for the rest of the season, and as long as we survive I will be more than happy.

"Last season, I had a big impact, I got goals and a new contract – so, yes, this year has been a disappointment," he said.

"People keep talking about the lack of goals but I still believe they will come.

"Maybe one or two of us have missed chances lately, and I include myself as a criminal in there, but if we keep going, they will go in. If we weren't making the chances, then I would really be worried," he added.

Manager Alan Irvine highlighted his side's inability to take chances after Monday's defeat to Bristol City plunged the club back into the relegation zone.

"We had 25 attempts at goal but we didn't score any!" Irvine reflected. "Even by the law of averages, you would expect to score at least one with that many chances. But people have got to take them."

One spat between Tudgay and striker Leon Clarke on the pitch also raised questions about unity in the Owls dressing room.

Irvine, however, insists that there is no need for players to be 'best friends' just as long as they show 'respect' for each other.

"It's always better if a team gets on – but they don't have to," said Irvine. "I have been involved with some very successful teams in the past who have been absolutely ruthless with each other. Sometimes you need that.

"As long as they respect each other – which I think the players do – you are fine. You don't need to be the best of friends but you don't need them to be the worst of enemies. That respect is vitally important.

"You are not going to suddenly turn someone who is mild mannered into a very aggressive person and vice-versa," he added. "But you hope you have the right balance in terms of personalities."

With Middlesbrough still clinging to the possibility of play-off qualification, the Owls will need to be on top of their game today to come away with anything from the Riverside Stadium.

Boro initially struggled to adjust to life in the Championship after relegation last season but are currently unbeaten in 10 home games since mid-December.

"If they win, it keeps hopes of the play-offs alive. If they lose, it probably kills them," said Irvine. "They have been on a good run of late and they will realise the importance of this game."

Boro are six points behind sixth-placed Leicester City, who travel to relegated Peterborough United.

They are also five points behind seventh-placed Blackpool, who visit leaders Newcastle United.

Boro manager Gordon Strachan said: "We need to win all four of our remaining games to give ourselves a chance. That's why we need to carry on with the same level of professionalism against Sheffield Wednesday.

"But we know they are desperate for points," he added. "You don't expect them to come here to play flowing football and you have to accept they will do everything they can to get something from the game."

The Owls were unbeaten in six games prior to Monday's defeat and are only adrift of safety by way of goal difference.

However, Watford, who are 21st, have a game in hand (at home to QPR) and today host Plymouth, who are four points adrift of safety.

One of the highlights of the Championship fixtures is the 'six-pointer' between struggling QPR and Crystal Palace which takes Neil Warnock back to Selhurst Park for the first time since he controversially swapped clubs last month.

Middlesbrough v Sheffield Wednesday

Team news: Winger Jermaine Johnson is set to return for the Owls after a hamstring injury but defender Lewis Buxton (hamstring) is again doubtful. Middlesbrough are likely to omit midfielder Gary O'Neil for the second consecutive game to avoid a 1m payment to his former club Portsmouth. Strikers Scott McDonald and Chris Killen, rested against Plymouth, are set for recalls.

Last six games: Middlesbrough DDWDDW, Wednesday DDWDDL

Last time: Middlesbrough 1 Wednesday 0; March 25, 2000, Premier League.

Referee: J Singh (Middlesex)

SkyBet odds: Middlesbrough to win 4-6, Wednesday to win 4-1, Draw 11-4.