Predicted Sheffield United line-up to face Bolton in the Championship
Sheffield United will welcome relegation-battlers Bolton Wanderers to the Bramall Lane on Saturday afternoon, in matchday 30 of the 2018-19 EFL Championship.
The Blades are currently stationed in the third spot in the Championship standings, having accumulated 51 points from 29 matches till date (W15, D6, L8), three points behind second-placed Norwich City and six behind leaders Leeds United. Chris Wilder’s men are without a win in their last two matches, losing to Swansea City before playing out a 2-2 draw against the Canaries.
The last time the Blades took on Bolton, they emerged victoriously. With the top two set to take on each other on Saturday evening, United have an excellent chance to cut the gap at the top with a victory against the Wanderers.
Team News
Last season’s top scorer Leon Clarke is unlikely to be involved as he closes in on a move to Wigan Athletic. Other than that, no major injury worries for Wilder to contend with heading into the game, while there are no players suspended either.
Predicted Sheffield United XI
Manager: Chris Wilder
Formation: 3-5-2
Dean Henderson (GK)
The on-loan Manchester United goalkeeper has established himself as an integral part of the team at Bramall Lane. An undisputed starter in goal.
Chris Basham (RCB)
An ever-present in the starting XI for Chris Wilder’s side when fit and available, the experienced Chris Basham should start in the three-man backline on Saturday.
John Egan (CB)
The 26-year-old summer signing from Brentford has become a key member of the side and has featured in all but one Championship game this term. Definite starter against Bolton.
Jack O’Connell (CB)
Completing the three-man backline for the home team on Saturday should be Englishman Jack O’Connell, who has started every league game this season, chipping in with a goal and two assists.
George Baldock (RWB)
The 26-year-old has become the preferred option in the right wing-back slot ahead of Kieron Freeman since his return to fitness. That is unlikely to change this weekend.
Mark Duffy (CM)
The 33-year-old is the creative source from the middle of the park for the Blades and has contributed with 4 goals and 5 assists so far in the Championship. Having not started against Norwich, he should feature from kick off on Saturday.
John Fleck (CM)
The Scotland international, who scored against Bolton in the reverse fixture, is a prominent member of the team and hasn’t missed a single Championship game since September. Another start beckons this weekend.
Oliver Norwood (CM)
The 27-year-old, whose move from Brighton was made permanent earlier this month, has scored twice and set up six more goals in 26 matches this term. He is expected to take up the third midfield slot for Sheffield United.
Enda Stevens (LWB)
The Irishman provides a constant outlet for the Blades with his forward forays down the left side. Has registered seven assists already this term and should start as the left wing-back on Saturday.
Billy Sharp (ST)
The club captain scored a brace against Norwich in the last game to take his tally for the season to 18 goals. Definite starter against Bolton.
David McGoldrick (ST)
The summer signing did not start against Norwich, with Gary Madine, signed on loan from Cardiff City earlier this month, getting picked. McGoldrick is expected to return to the lineup on Saturday.
