Sheffield United have made a decent start to life in the Premier League following their promotion. The Blades have collected 5 points from 4 league games so far and have hardly shown any signs of weakness.
After a brief pause due to the international break, English top-tier football is set to return this weekend. Chris Wilder’s troops are due to host Southampton at the Bramall Lane on Saturday and the fixture promises to be a crunch one in terms of its significance.
Sheffield United Team News
David McGoldrick and Callum Robinson were withdrawn from international duty in the midweek due to their injury concerns. They might not be rushed into the starting lineup by Wilder even if they are declared fit before the game.
Besides, John Fleck and Kean Bryan are also in the medical room as they are nursing their hamstring and ankle injuries respectively. Fleck has been out of action since mid-August and the club is eagerly waiting for his return.
Predicted Sheffield United Lineup Vs Southampton (3-5-2)
Defence
Dean Henderson is the first-choice custodian in the Sheffield United lineup and is expected to start between the sticks as usual. The 22-year-old made 3 saves against Chelsea and will be desperate to bag a clean sheet this weekend against the Saints.
A three-man backline comprising of John Egan, Jack O’Connell and Chris Basham is likely to stand in the way of Southampton. They have been impressive till now and much will depend on how the season pans out for the men at the back. Their form will have a huge impact on Sheffield’s ultimate league position.
Wing-backs
George Baldock and Enda Stevens have been absolutely fantastic for Sheffield United following their promotion to the top-flight. It goes without saying that these two are set to start as the wing-backs once again in the Sheffield United lineup.
Stevens, after 4 league appearances so far, has notched up 3.5 tackles and 3 dribbles per game on an average. Impliedly, he has not only catered to his defensive duties meticulously but has also helped his offensive teammates.
Midfield
John Lundstram and Luke Freeman could feature alongside Oliver Norwood in the central midfield. Norwood won 1 aerial duel and made 4 tackles during the game against Chelsea and there is no doubt that he deserves to get the nod to start.
Attack
Lys Mousset could get the green light to start upfront along with Oliver McBurnie. Wilder has a number of options in the attacking sector and he has hinted at possible rotation over the course of the season. Hence, Lys and McBurnie will look to make most of the opportunities they will receive.
Statistics Credits: WhoScored
