Chris Wilder has admitted he will make 11 changes to his Sheffield United team for the FA Cup third round clash with Fylde.
Wilder has apologised for the decision – which he made following the 2-0 Premier League defeat to Liverpool.
The Blades looked tired at Anfield as they were completely outplayed by the European and World Champions.
“I was going to play a strong team in the FA Cup but looking what Christmas has taken out of my players I will, I apologise, make 11 changes and give some other lads a chance,” Wilder told BBC Sport.
“I want to win every game and there will be full expectancy on the players who go out.”
Who will play for Sheffield United against Fylde?
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Whoever Wilder fields should still be expected to win against a side currently 21st in the National League table. However, they were beaten at home by non-league opponents at this stage last season, losing 1-0 to Barnet.
Wilder has been very consistent with his selection in the league so far in 2019/20. Which has meant that several players have had little game time.
This therefore represents a great opportunity to give them just that.
In goal it could well mean a debut for summer signing Michael Verrips, who has become the preferred backup on the bench to Dean Henderson in recent times.
Phil Jagielka is likely to anchor the three-man central defence, flanked by Kean Bryan and Richard Stearman. Kieron Freeman and Ben Osborn are the obvious candidates to replace George Baldock and Enda Stevens as wing-backs.
Everton loanee Mo Besic and Luke Freeman have been called upon on occasion in the league this term and should also start. It could also mean a rare appearances for Ravel Morrison.
Wilder has rotated his strikers fairly frequently and they have all therefore had decent game time. David McGoldrick and Lys Mousset are the preferred partnership, though, and will probably receive a rest.
That means it’s likely to be captain Billy Sharp or Oli McBurnie as the number nine, with perhaps Callum Robinson as the support.