Robbo’s gone (feels nice just typing that!) and all over Sheffield there are Blades fans waking from a Robson induced coma. It really is amazing the change of outlook his departure has brought about. No more wondering if a positive result would do more harm than good, we can now get 100% behind the lads at last. I won’t be the only one who is looking forward to going to the Lane for the first time in months I’m sure.
This won’t be easy, Middlesbrough seem to have enjoyed a huge turnaround in recent weeks and they will arrive at the Lane motivated and confident.
Vital Quotes:
Paddy Kenny told the official site ‘The lads are looking forward to working with him [Blackwell], there’s not a lot of time before the Middlesbrough game but I’m sure he and Sam will get their messages across of what they expect for us.’
Boro’s Malcolm Crosby told their official site ‘Sheffield United can be a bit intimidating down at Bramall Lane but we won’t back off. I’m sure the players and staff are all looking forward to it.’
Sheffield United Team News:
Veterans Gary Speed and Ugo Ehiogu are both battling to be fit for this one. Jon Stead has returned to training following illness.
Recent loan signing David Cotterill is cup-tied.
Player to watch: Michael Tonge
His best season at the club was 2002/03 when Blackwell was still assistant manager. Can he rediscover that form?
Middlesbrough Team News:
One time Robson target Lee Cattermole is injured. £12m man Afonso Alves could make his full debut.
Player to watch: Afonso Alves
Will he play flanked by those two trannies who appeared alongside him when he was presented to the Boro crowd?
Match Facts & Stats
The only time the two sides have met in the FA Cup was in 1922/23. The Blades won the replay 3-0 after a 1-1 draw in the first game.
Match Prediction:
I think this one could be a draw, I’ll plump for 1-1. Michael Tonge might be a decent shout for the first goal at 20/1.
For all the latest odds on the game, go to: www.williamhill.co.uk
Next Fixtures:
23rd February QPR (a)
1st March Charlton (h)