Predicted Sheffield United Line-up To Face Aston Villa In The EFL Championship
It’s five games without a win for the Blades now but they remain promotion contenders and one of the most entertaining sides to watch in the Championship. They are now facing a tough trip to Aston Villa on Saturday night.
Chris Wilder must do without the suspended John Fleck but should otherwise have a fully available squad to choose from.
With any luck, midfielder David Brooks will be available for this one as he is just the type of surprise package who could undo the Villa defence and could be given a role just behind the striker, as he was at Hillsborough in the Sheffield derby when he was so impressive.
The usual 3-5-2 formation should be seen again, using the following XI:
Formation: 3-5-2
Manager: Chris Wilder
GK – Simon Moore
Having usurped Jamal Blackman, he has had a torrid time during a bad run for the Blades, though he’ll be hoping for an easier time at Villa Park. I’m not certain he’ll get it his wish though.
CB – Cameron Carter-Vickers
There’s talk of Tottenham taking him back to cover a defensive crisis, something the Blades will be praying doesn’t happen.
CB – Richard Stearman
It’s good to see him back fit and he is likely to carry on in the heart of this defence.
CB – Jack O’Connell
A regular member of a very settled back three these days and should start this game.
RWB – George Baldock
It could be a hard evening for Baldock, but he is not out of place in this league or in this contest and should cope well enough.
LWB – Enda Stevens
Will have to put more emphasis on his defensive work this week but he is a major attacking outlet for the Blades down the left. He will need to remain ambitious when the chance arises.
CM – John Lundstram
The former Oxford man has coped really well in this division and is very likely to get a starting place once again.
CM – Chris Basham
Asked to play here last time out and may well be told to do so again.
CM – Samir Carruthers
They need John Fleck back sharp for this role but for now, Carruthers may be asked to continue.
SS – David Brooks
This is more in hope than expectation, though it would be great to see him in this role again. Otherwise, it’ll be a proper front two with Billy Sharp lining up.
ST – Leon Clarke
The league’s top scorer simply has to play if fit and will represent the Blades’ best chance of a goal.