Sheffield United travel to rivals Sheffield Wednesday on Monday for the second Steel City Derby of the season.
The Blades are looking to extend their six-match unbeaten run in the Championship. They have won four of those games, including their last three on the bounce.
It is a run of form that has seen Chris Wilder’s men move ahead of Leeds United into the automatic promotion places. With 12 matches left to play the Premier League feels within reach.
However, they face a rejuvenated Wednesday side under new manager Steve Bruce. Since Bruce took charge on February 2 the Owls have won three matches and drawn three. They go into the fixture at Hillsborough on the back of successive victories.
Blades predicted lineup
SAKA, ANTONY AND 10 PREMIER LEAGUE STARS HEADING TO THEIR FIRST WORLD CUP
So how will United start the game? Well Dean Henderson should continue his run of playing every league match so far this season. The goalkeeper has been a key figure for United.
In central defence, Martin Cranie has started the last three fixtures and helped the team keep three clean sheets. However, he came off with injury in the last outing at West Bromwich Albion and with Chris Basham back from suspension, a change could occur.
John Egan has been hugely important since signing from Brentford last summer and should retain his spot.
(photo by John Patrick Fletcher/Action Plus via Getty Images)
Completing the back line could well be usual left-back Enda Stevens, who has also played at centre half during the recent defensive success. Jack O’Connell is in contention following a hamstring problem, but Wilder might not risk him from the start.
That means that Middlesbrough loanee Marvin Johnson can continue his impressive work at left wing-back, while Kieron Freeman should be on the right with George Baldock having fitness concerns.
In central midfield Oliver Norwood and John Fleck have been standout performers. Ahead of them Kieran Dowell might get the nod in attacking midfield having scored the winner at West Brom.
Top scorer and captain Billy Sharp should lead the line, but former Owl Gary Madine could well replace David McGoldrick as his strike partner.
GK – Dean Henderson
RCB – Chris Basham
CB – John Egan
LCB – Enda Stevens
RWB – Kieron Freeman
RCM – Oliver Norwood
LCM – John Fleck
LWB – Marvin Johnson
CAM – Kieran Dowell
RS – Gary Madine
LS – Billy Sharp
