Billy Sharp will sit out of the South Yorkshire derby between Sheffield United and Doncaster Rovers at Bramall Lane tomorrow, despite no contractual obligation.
The striker netted his first Rovers goal last Saturday in the 2-2 and with a doubt over Jamie Coppinger’s fitness, Sharp is key to the visitors, but it has already been decided that he won’t feature.
The Blades will be looking for their first win in three games after defeat at Swansea and a draw at home to struggling Ipswich Town on Tuesday.
Rovers manager Sean O’Driscoll has commented on Sharp’s absence from the squad:
‘I remember conversations with his agent where it was preempted that it would be a bit difficult for Billy to play against his club but there was nothing in the contract.
‘Although there’s nothing in writing, and technically I presume we would be within our right to actually name him on the team sheet, I don’t think that’s the gentlemanly thing to do and Sheffield United have done us a favour so it’s almost like biting the hand that feeds you.
‘I spoke to Kevin and I agree with him that it would be nonsensical for him to play – a player who’s still on quite a long contract with Sheffield – and I’ve got no problems with that. Billy’s a bit disappointed because he wants to play football but we get on with it.’
Vital Quotes:
Sam Ellis
Doncaster will want to repeat their win here last year which may have been their season’s best result because they went on a good run after that.
In fact, over the final 23 games, I think that we scored most points in the Championship and Rovers were next.
The fact that they beat us doesn’t make it any more important for us to win because we want to win every game, no matter what the circumstances.
They had a style of playing which they didn’t change when they were at the Lane although they changed the way they played it.
They played three centre-backs against us and might feel that they want to do that again, but whatever they do we will be ready.
‘Donny’ are a good side on a reasonable run and are making progress under Sean O’Driscoll.
Both teams will be up for it because, being neighbours, there is the importance of the fixture to the fans as well as winning the points.
Sheffield United Team News:
The Blades are likely to be without both Matt Kilgallon and Keith Treacy for the visit of Doncaster. Therefore Andrew Davies is likely to deputise at the back, and Kevin Blackwell is expecting to keep the 4-4-2 with two goal star Henderson, and Ched Evans up front.
Player to watch: Darius Henderson
The Blades frontman has received some criticism following his £2million move last summer, but is still regarded as a key part of Kevin Blackwell’s plans.
However, the former Watford target man grabbed his second and third goals of the season during the 3-3 draw with Ipswich.
Doncaster Rovers Team News:
Doncaster have doubts over Coppinger and Lockwood, but Jason Shackell is expected to be fit.
Meanwhile John Oster and Quinton Fortune are suspended following their sendings off last weekend at Glanford Park.
Player to watch: James Chambers
With a lack of width in their midfield, Rovers look to use their fullbacks as much as possible going forward, and Chambers will be heading to the byline at every possible opportunity.
Martin Woods could also prove a problem for United, after stepping up this year to fill some rather large shoes left by Ritchie Wellens.
Match Facts & Stats
The Last Time:
Sheffield United 0-1 Doncaster Rovers
More points were thrown away at Bramall Lane when the visitors rocked up at Bramall Lane, played five across defence, and nicked victory thanks to a Chris Morgan own goal just after half time.
Ref Watch:
Lee Probert will officiate the game at Bramall Lane.
Match Prediction:
I can see this being quite close, despite the Blades being the favourites. This may disappoint some people but my guess is a thrilling 0-0