4th place Sheffield United host 3rd place Bristol City on Friday night, with both sides looking to close the gap on 2nd place Cardiff City.
There is just goal difference which separates the two sides so far this season. Both sit on 37 points from their 20 league games, with the Robins only ahead of the Blades due to a superior goal difference.
FORM
After an incredible start to the season, Sheffield United are showing signs of faltering. They have failed to win in any of their previous 3 matches, and were comfortably beaten 3-1 by Millwall at the Den last time out.
On the other hand, Bristol City seem to be getting better and better. They have won five of their last seven-league matches, including impressive home wins against both Cardiff and Middlesbrough. The Robins were also victorious in their most recent away game, coming from two goals down to beat Hull 3-2.
TEAM NEWS
Chris Wilder is expected to welcome back defender George Baldock (hamstring) on Friday for the first time since October. Billy Sharp is also set to return to the starting XI after only appearing as a substitute last week. Paul Coutts remains a long term absentee, United have failed to win since he suffered a broken leg against Burton Albion.
Bristol City winger Jamie Patterson (hamstring) is hopeful of being fit for the trip to Bramall Lane. Famara Diedhiou (knee), Callum O’Dowda (ankle), Eros Pisano (hamstring), Garry O’Neil (knee), Jens Hegeler (knee) and Milan Djuric (groin) all remain sidelined. (BBC Sport)
HEAD TO HEAD
This will be the sides 53rd meeting since their first back in 1904. It is Sheffield United who boast the better record, winning on 28 occasions in comparison to Bristol City’s 13 victories. The Blades were also victorious in the last encounter, winning 3-1 at Ashton Gate in 2015. (11v11)
PREDICTION
I think tomorrow will be the night Sheffield United return to form. Bristol City are in a rich vein of form, but United will be looking to make Bramall Lane a fortress again.
