Neil Warnock takes his side to the Madejski stadium on Saturday to face Steve Coppell’s Reading. United will be wanting to avenge the 2-1 defeat at the hands of Reading earlier this season, which saw the Royals score in the very first minute of the game. Reading have enjoyed a great first season in the Premiership so far, including a 6-0 victory over West Ham in their last league game at the Madejski Stadium.
Vital Quotes:
Warnock: ‘We’ve always been involved in good battles (with Reading), And I’m sure this one will be no different.’
Coppell on Reading’s nine game unbeaten run against the Blades: ‘It’s a fresh game and if the boot was on the other foot I’d just be more determined to put it right.’
Reading Team News:
Kevin Doyle and Brynjar Gunnarsson are both out through injury, but Dave Kitson and Bobby Convey return to the squad. Shane Long and Graeme Murty both face late fitness tests.
Player to watch: Sidwell
The highly rated midfielder certainly got the better of Jagielka in the game at the Lane earlier this season and will be a major threat from midfield.
Sheffield United Team News:
It seems that Gerrard will continue in goal (NO!!!!), with Kenny still out injured. New signing Kilgallon faces a late fitness test while Morgan sits out his final match ban. Lucketti will continue at centre back after impressing against Portsmouth.
Player to watch: Jagielka
Jag’s will face a tough battle against Sidwell in the centre of midfield, but if he can come out on top, so might the Blades.
Match Facts & Stats
Last Time: Sheffield United 1-2 Reading (16/09/06)
Head-To-Head: Sheffield United 11, Reading 13, Draws 6.
Ref Watch:
Mark Halsey (Lancashire)
Next Fixtures:
Sheffield United Vs Fulham: Tues 30/01/07, 7.45pm.
Birmingham City Vs Reading: Sat 27/01/07, 3.00pm (FA Cup 4th Rd).