Sheffield Wednesday v Derby County: Owls chief backs injured Johnson to make it to summit

The Jamaican international has been key to Wednesday's recent revival, but limped off after just nine minutes during Tuesday's 2-2 draw at Preston North End.

Scans have shown a grade one tear in his hamstring, which should see him sidelined for between 10 and 14 days.

It will rule him out of the vital Hillsborough double-header against Derby County and Watford, and next weekend's trip to Coventry City.

Manager Alan Irvine is a huge admirer of the 29-year-old former Bradford City winger, and will have to juggle his midfield today with Tom Soares a likely replacement.

"There aren't too many like-for-like players in the League," said Irvine. "He is something different, there's no question about that.

"He gives us a really good option, he can play either wing or up front and has the ability and pace to transform us from defending to attack. That makes a huge difference."

Johnson has been criticised in the past for his inconsistency, but Irvine believes his own playing days as a winger have helped him to understand the problems his current player faces.

"In the short time I have worked with him, I have had no problems, I am delighted with him," said Irvine. "I was a winger myself so I understand what he does, it is something not a lot of people can do.

"He needs to be encouraged to do what he is good at. There is no point in picking JJ if you don't want him to go and attack people, take them on, and be prepared to let him fail.

"I played in that position myself, when managers thought I was absolutely brilliant when I beat somebody, but the moment I didn't they told me I should have passed the ball.

"You can't have it both ways. Yes, his final ball could be better at times, but he won't be criticised by me for trying to beat people."

Irvine even believes Johnson – who has been capped 40 times for his country – could be a hit in the Premier League, where his pace and power could trouble even the best full-backs in the country.

"I certainly think JJ is a player capable of playing at the highest level in this country. He has attributes which would be very welcome in the Premier League.

"He has the capabilities but there are lots of things which make up a player. It's not just about your ability and technique, but your mentality, too. I'm still finding out about him as far as that's concerned.

"He wouldn't be the first really talented player for people to say he hasn't done as well as he should have done. The very best players have all the pieces of the jigsaw."