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| A tale of two troubled sides, Manchester United's top four hopes hang in the balance, will they turn up against the Blades? (Photo credit: GOAL) |
Manchester United hasn’t won a game in regulation time since early March; the penalty shootout win over Coventry City is their only win in their last five games.
Sheffield United is destined for the drop; they’re as good as confirmed to be heading back to the Championship if they lose at Old Trafford on Wednesday. It’s a hell of a season for the Blades, and you just don’t see them springing any surprises.
Manchester United is that big team you want to face when you need to show you’re up for a fight. The Red Devils dumbfounded their fans on Sunday at Wembley; they led 3-0 up until the final 20 minutes of the FA Cup semi-final against the Sky Blues but somehow found a way to lose their lead.
They did win the game on penalties, but they showed they cannot be trusted against any side. The run of conceding late goals isn’t ending soon, and this must encourage the Blades as they continue to hang by a thread in the race for survival.
The 4-1 loss to Burnley at Bramall Lane all but confirmed Sheffield’s doom. How do you lose scandalously at home to a relegation rival? Chris Wilder’s job isn’t the easiest, but you should be embarrassed by such a display and result.
Marcus Rashford limped off against the Sky Blues; he is not going to be available for the visit of Sheffield United. Mason Mount and Scott McTominay are also unavailable after suffering injuries before and after the Coventry game, respectively.
Injuries also plague the visitors. Chris Basham, George Baldock, and Max Lowe are all out for the rest of the season. Rhian Brewster is back in training, but the trip to Old Trafford might come too soon for him. Chris Wilder must find the right formula to show up against United.
The Blades must be brave; they cannot afford to make the silly mistake that has been a part of their season. From the goalkeeper losing concentration to the unaccountability of possession, Sheffield must be ready for this game.
Erik Ten Hag failed to take responsibility for United’s embarrassing showing against Coventry City. With Sir Jim Ratcliff watching things from the director’s box, the days of the Dutchman at Old Trafford are numbered, especially if he doesn’t win here.