Blades will not contest Ward's derby dismissal

Nottingham Forest v Sheffield United

championship

SHEFFIELD United striker Jamie Ward will start a three-match ban tonight after manager Gary Speed scrapped a proposed appeal over his red card against Leeds United.

Ward was sent off for violent conduct at Elland Road following an over-the-ball challenge on Leeds midfielder Neil Kilkenny.

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Speed said: “Having looked at the video and, after getting feedback from various sources, we have decided to bite the bullet. We didn’t want Jamie to get an extra game if it was counted as a frivolous appeal. He has not touched the lad but the manner and intent of the challenge means it looks worse.”

The Blades travel to Nottingham Forest and are again without injured captain Chris Morgan but on-loan defender Richie de Laet is expected to make his first start.

Last six games: Nottm Forest DDDWDW, Sheffield United LWWLWL.

Last time: Nottm Forest 1 Sheffield United 0; February 16, 2010; Championship.

Referee: MP Russell (Hertfordshire).