Manchester United vs Sheffield United
Date: 27/01/2021
K/O: 20:15
Venue: Old Trafford
Referee: Peter Bankes
TV: BT Sport 1
Second only to their neighbours, Manchester United host last-placed Sheffield United as they look to continue their chase for the Premier League title.
Both clubs come into the tie off the back of FA Cup victories, with Manchester United disposing of rivals Liverpool, and Sheffield United dispatching Plymouth on their way to the fifth round. The league table would suggest a routine victory for the Red Devils; this fixture may not be as straightforward as it initially seems.
Manchester United come into the tie off the back of some of the best form they have seen in their post-Ferguson era. For the first time in over seven years, they led the Premier League table, a monumental milestone for a club that has been poorly managed in recent seasons.
Most notably, the Red Devils have been undefeated away from home in over a year, and have, also, started to get their home form to where it needs to be to surmount a surprising title charge. With early title favourites Liverpool and Chelsea floundering of late, it looks as if United are set to battle their neighbours for the Premier League title.
Looking ahead to the Sheffield United tie, it may be expected for Manchester United to rest some first-team players, as they face three top-half sides in the next fortnight. Despite being bottom of the league, the Blades have found some form in recent weeks and have gradually built into their season and will certainly not make it easy for Manchester United to claim victory.
After impressing against Liverpool at the weekend, Bruno Fernandes would be expected to start and continue his sensational league form. Goals from Marcus Rashford and Mason Greenwood will give Ole Gunnar Solskjær a headache for selection in attack as Anthony Martial has struggled to impress this season. Alongside him, Donny Van de Beek struggled to make a true impression in the FA Cup win over Liverpool and the Dutchman would relish the opportunity to play consecutive games – some consistency and an easier fixture may give him the perfect opportunity to showcase his abilities.
Manchester United’s opponents Sheffield United will take inspiration from the likes of Burnley, as they look to upset one of the divisions best sides. Chris Wilder had little trouble pulling off upsets last season and will need to find that magic if he is to topple the second-placed side in their own back yard.
A solitary win against Newcastle two weeks ago has the Blades stranded at the bottom of the table. With relegation seemingly a certainty, a result against the pre-game week league leaders could be what it takes to turn the Blades miserable season around.
Sheffield United come into the tie having suffered defeat to Tottenham in their last league game, although there were signs of improvement. With the Blades facing both Manchester clubs in succession, the introduction of a more dynamic attacking style – including the likes of Rhian Brewster – could be an option for Wilder to find success. Record signing Brewster has struggled to find his identity in this floundering Sheffield United side; however, his Swansea days showed us the talent he has at his disposal. A change in playstyle could be all he needs to unlock his potential as the Blades number nine and to secure Wilder his second win of the season.
Team News
Manchester United
After a hard-fought game against Liverpool, United could be expected to rest key personnel. Marcus Rashford suffered a suspected knee injury and may be a doubt to feature.
Sheffield United
Sander Berge and Jack O’Connell are still long term absences. Oli McBurnie, Ben Osborn, Jack Robinson and Lys Mousset are all doubtful for this fixture.
Predicted Starting XIs
Manchester United (4-2-3-1): De Gea; Wan-Bissaka, Bailly, Maguire, Shaw; McTominay, Pogba; Greenwood, Fernandes, Martial; Cavani
Sheffield United (3-5-2): Ramsdale; Basham, Egan, Ampadu; Bogle, Lundstram, Norwood, Fleck, Stevens; McGoldrick, Brewster
Score Prediction: Manchester United 4-1 Sheffield United
Despite Sheffield United’s resurgence in form, Manchester United are playing some of the best football we have seen from them in years. Ole Gunnar Solskjær will be wise enough to know this fixture could be a stumbling block if his side isn’t careful, thus his side will take this game like any other and should leave as clear victors.
