Things don’t get any easier for Sheffield United and Slavisa Jokanovic this evening, as the Blades travel to The Hawthorns to face West Brom.
And we’ve got all the pre-match build-up for you here on Sheffield United.News.
Story so far
The Baggies have enjoyed a goal-laden and somewhat impressive start to life under Valerien Ismael. They’ve scored five times – including two from former Blade Callum Robinson – and have looked a real threat at times.
The good news for United is that Albion have also conceded four already, with defensive mistakes a common theme. West Brom drew 2-2 with Bournemouth, before allowing Luton back into the game at the weekend before winning out 3-2.
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Slavisa Jokanovic will be hoping his team can capitalise on any errors tonight, then. The Serbian once again faces a tough choice with his first XI.
The new United boss is still searching for his best team and a first league win. A 1-0 loss to Birmingham was followed by a dull 0-0 draw away at Swansea City. Any sort of result tonight, would be a bonus.
Team News
For United, Jokanovic could hand Liverpool loanee Ben Davies his debut. He is expected to go straight into the squad. Whether Jokanovic goes with a three or four at the back, remains to be seen.
Enda Stevens remains out, so Rhys Norrington-Davies and Jack Robinson could fight it out at left-back (if we play a back four). In midfield, Sander Berge and Ollie Norwood could keep their place, although John Fleck and Ben Osborn may add fresh legs.
Lys Mousset is injured up top. Oli McBurnie, though, could get a start after coming off the bench at Swansea.
For the Baggies, Matt Clarke should start and feature for 90 minutes after coming off against Luton. Former Blade Matty Phillips could also come into the fold.
However, there’ll be no place for Robert Snodgrass. The left-footer is still working his way back from injury, and will miss out tonight.
Head to head
This will be the 119th meeting between the Baggies and the Blades, with Albion just holding the upper hand on 46 wins to United’s 43.
Both sides took one win each in the Premier League last season. Billy Sharp and Jayden Bogle scored at Bramall Lane, while a Connor Gallagher goal snatched a 1-0 win for Albion at The Hawthorns.
United won the last meeting of the clubs at this level. That evening, Kieran Dowell headed in a crucial winner to set the Blades on their way to promotion under Chris Wilder.
Predicted Sheffield United XI
Sheffield United.News prediction
Unfortunately, we feel this could be a tough game come too soon for United and Jokanovic. West Brom look to have settled under Ismael, with the Blades still finding their way.
A point would be a great result. But you just know Callum Robinson will score, and it could be another blank for the Blades.
Our prediction – West Brom 2-0 Sheffield United
