Sheffield United travel to the Gtech Community Stadium on Saturday afternoon to take on struggling Brentford.
The Blades will be hoping to achieve a rare feat this season, completing the double over an opponent. While Brentford will be looking to avenge that 1-0 defeat at Bramall Lane, and they’ll have Ivan Toney and Bryan Mbuemo available to achieve that.
Brentford find themselves in a precarious position as they head into Saturday’s clash, their last nine Premier League games devoid of a win. Yet, there’s a glimmer of hope amidst the gloom – they’ve salvaged a solitary point from each of their last three fixtures.
Thomas Frank lauded his squad’s resilience in clawing back from a two-goal deficit to secure a 3-3 draw against Aston Villa. However, the lack of a victory since February 10 casts a shadow over their efforts, leaving them perched precariously in 15th place, merely four points clear of the dreaded relegation zone.
Sheffield United, on the other hand, showcased a commendable display against Chelsea, securing a vital point in a 2-2 draw at home following a spirited performance against title contenders Liverpool.
Jayden Bogle’s first goal since August last year injected life into the Blades’ campaign, sandwiched between strikes from Chelsea’s Thiago Silva and Noni Madueke. The dramatic climax ensued when Oli McBurnie hammered home a dramatic 93rd-minute equaliser, his sixth goal at Bramall Lane this season, ensuring both teams shared the spoils.
As Brentford gear up to face teams positioned below them in the league table in their next three encounters, the spotlight intensifies on their quest for a resurgence.
Meanwhile, Sheffield United find themselves rooted to the bottom of the Premier League standings, facing the looming threat of an immediate return to the Championship. They currently sit nine points adrift of safety, with their hopes hanging by a thread.
However, there’s a glimmer of opportunity as they possess a game in hand over four of the five teams positioned above them, including their upcoming opponents, Brentford, this Saturday, which also gives them an opportunity to drag the Bees into a relegation battle.
Team news
The Bees have a tonne of injuries to contend with, they’re without Josh DaSilva, Rico Henry, Ben Mee and Aaron Hickey for the clash against the Blades. Christian Norgaard, Ethan Pinnock and Kevin Schade are also doubts.
There is no update on Sergio Reguilon who was substituted out against Aston Villa.
Sheffield United’s long injury list remains. Chris Basham, John Egan, Max Lowe, Rhys Norrington-Davies, George Baldock, Tom Davies, Rhian Brewster and Daniel Jebbison are still in the treatment room.
United’s captain Jack Robinson will be given a chance to prove his fitness for the Brentford game, Chris Wilder stated in his pre-match press conference.
Players to watch
Brentford will likely start the brilliant duo Ivan Toney and Bryan Mbuemo together for the first time this season. But Sheffield United should be cautious of Sergio Reguilon if he plays.
The left-back produced two assists against Aston Villa last week, and one thing the Blades have struggled with all season long is defending crosses from in-play and dead-ball situations. And with the likely targets of Toney and Mbuemo to aim for, the Spaniard will have plenty of movement ahead of him.
With the pace of the game threatening to be like a basketball match, a player like Gustavo Hamer would love the opportunity to play in a quick transition type of game. The Sheffield United midfielder has registered two assists and a goal in away sides’ last four games. I expect the Dutchman to have a big impact on the game on Saturday.
Key stats
Brentford’s struggle against Sheffield United persists, with the Bees failing to secure a victory in their last six league encounters (drawing twice and losing four times).
The Blades, on the other hand, have emerged triumphant in their last three meetings, including a 1-0 win at Bramall Lane earlier this season.
Brentford lead the league in a less desirable statistic, having relinquished a staggering 30 points from winning positions this season.
Sheffield United’s away form leaves much to be desired. With just one win in their 15 away league games this season, they have suffered defeat on 11 occasions.
Additionally, their defence has been traditionally poor on the road, failing to keep a clean sheet in the Premier League since May 2021 when they secured a 1-0 victory against Everton.
