On Sky
Sheffield United await the visit of League Champions Chelsea on Saturday. The Blades will be hoping to bounce back from two straight defeats against Everton and Birmingham. However, Neil Warnock and his squad could hardly have asked for any tougher opposition in the form of Mourinho’s well-oiled winning machine.
Vital Quotes:
Warnock on squad: ‘There’s nothing untoward. Colin (Kazim-Richards) has a bit of a knock, but everyone’s 100%. Hopefully we’ll be unchanged (from Everton) if everything’s ok’.
Bromby on Chelsea: ‘We’re realistic. We know what a good side Chelsea are. They’re the best team in the country. You’ve got to focus on your own strengths and hope that we can do our jobs on the day’.
Sheffield United Team News:
Sheffield United look likely to name an unchanged team from the one that started against Everton. Claude Davis is available again after sitting out Tuesday’s Carling Cup tie through suspension. United’s only major doubt seems to be with Kazim-Richards who is struggling with a knee strain. After an impressive performance on Tuesday Nick Montgomery will be hoping for a place in the squad.
Player to watch: Tonge
If United are to have any kind of success against Chelsea on Saturday Michael Tonge needs to be at his best, both defensively and going forward. If Tonge can deliver the right kind of balls to the wingers and Hulse up front United may have some luck in front of goal.
Chelsea Team News:
Joe Cole is in contention to start for Chelsea after coming through the Carling Cup game on Wednesday unscathed. Chelsea welcome back Drogba, Shevchenko, Lampard and Carvalho after they sat out the midweek game against Blackburn. It looks likely that third choice keeper Hilario will stay in goal for Chelsea even though Cudicini may be available.
Player to watch: Shevchenko
After scoring his first goal for Chelsea last weekend Shevchenko will hope to continue his form. The former AC Milan striker has taken time to settle at Chelsea but, as the saying goes, class is permanent, form is temporary and, unfortunately for the Blades, Shevchenko is class.
Match Facts & Stats
Referee: Martin Atkinson (Yorkshire)
Last meeting: Chelsea 3-2 Sheffield United (07/05/94)
Total head-to-head: Sheffield United 27, Chelsea 36, Draws 15.
Next Fixtures:
Newcastle United Vs Sheffield United
Spurs Vs Chelsea