Tyler Smith could make his Sheffield United debut against West Bromwich Albion.
This comes after the striker was called back early from his loan at Barrow. Smith was set to stay with the National League side until the New Year.
However, the Blades are waiting on a late fitness test on Leon Clarke ahead of Friday’s trip to the Hawthorns.
“We’re just assessing Leon and we’ll give him as much time as possible,” manager Chris Wilder told the Sheffield Star.
“We’ve recalled young Tyler from Barrow, where he’s done well and scored a few goals. That’s good, for the lad and for the other youngsters in the academy.
“So if Leon isn’t involved, then Tyler will – and we’re looking forward to that.”
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Who is Tyler Smith?
Born and raised in Sheffield, Smith has come through the United academy. The 20-year-old’s spell at Barrow was his first experience of league football.
And the forward took to it very well, scoring 11 goals in 23 matches to help the Cumbrian side to 12th in the table currently.
It is well known that Wilder is looking to improve his attack over the next month. Signing a new striker is the priority for the Blades boss during the January transfer window.
However, this could be a great opportunity for Smith to prove his worth to Wilder. After all, an injection of youth could reinvigorate the United attack.
Of their current options, David McGoldrick (31), Billy Sharp (32) and Leon Clarke (33) are all over the age of 30. Aside from Sharp – who has 11 league goals this season – the others are failing to perform as well.
Between McGoldrick, Clarke and Wilder’s other attacking option, Conor Washington, they have seven goals this term.
The step up from non-league to the Championship will be a big one for Smith, but could the youngster be the latest success from the prolific Blades academy?