Leeds United host Sheffield United on Friday evening, with both teams riding high in the early push for promotion from the Championship. The stakes are significant as both clubs aim to return to the Premier League, and this clash could set the tone for the remainder of the season.
Leeds enter this match off the back of two consecutive draws before the international break. However, their most recent game against Sunderland was marred by a huge error from goalkeeper Illan Meslier. In the 96th minute, a routine catch slipped through his grasp and into the net, resulting in a costly draw and marking one of the most embarrassing moments in recent Championship history. Leeds will be keen to put that behind them and push for a win in front of their home crowd.
On the other hand, Sheffield United come into this fixture with momentum on their side. The Blades secured back-to-back home wins before the international break, beating Swansea City and Luton Town. More impressively, they’ve kept a clean sheet in their last six matches and are yet to lose in the league this season. A win, or a draw, on Friday would see them leapfrog Sunderland to take first place in the Championship standings.
The Blades have proven a formidable force under manager Chris Wilder, especially in their second-tier meetings against Leeds. Wilder’s side have won their last two away games at Elland Road in the Championship, making it three wins out of their last four meetings in this division.
Chris Wilder on the excellent start to the season
Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder remains grounded despite his team’s unbeaten run. “We’re delighted with our start, but I’ve been in the game long enough, I don’t get carried away with anything. Anything can happen. We can lose players to injury, we can lose form. There’s going to be bumps in the road, but to get into this position unbeaten, we’ve had a really good start,” Wilder told SUTV.
While some may point to United’s modest goal tally compared to other promotion contenders, Wilder isn’t overly concerned. “Of course, we’re all after perfection, the supporters want us to be the leading scorers, best at set plays, best conversion rate. But it doesn’t work that way. We’ve got a solid base to work from. Everyone who’s watched us will say that we’ve created good opportunities, and if we keep going, we’ll be alright.”
Blades boss on the rivalry between Leeds and Sheffield United
Wilder acknowledges the historical rivalry between Leeds and the Blades, though he downplays its hostility. “It’s not Sheffield United vs Sheffield Wednesday or Leeds vs Man United. But there’s an edge. We’ve always felt we’re in their shadow a bit, football-wise, with what they’ve achieved. Leeds are a huge football club, and we’ve gone down a similar path in recent years, both clubs bouncing between the Premier League and Championship.”
As for the importance of Friday’s game, Wilder claimed: “There’s always that extra bit in it, especially with both teams going incredibly well and tipped for a successful season. It’s a big game, but it doesn’t define the season. Winning doesn’t automatically mean we’re on our way to success, and vice versa.”
