Away day in Trophy should see Blades in more relaxed mode

DANNY Wilson believes the pressure is off tonight as Sheffield United put their promotion bid on hold and turn their attention to the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy.

The Blades are unbeaten in League One but sit third in the table after being denied victory in the seventh minute of stoppage time against Oldham Athletic last weekend.

Matt Smith’s dramatic late strike was the fourth home game United have drawn in a row. It is, therefore, maybe a blessing that tonight’s tie, which is being shown live by Sky Sports, is to be played at Notts County.

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Wilson said: “We played Notts County in the league the other week and they are a good side. But these are different circumstances for both teams.

“You could say a bit of the pressure is off for both of us because we are two teams who, first and foremost, are looking at the league.

“We shall go there and be positive because we want to win and put on a good show. Why not go into the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy with the attitude that you want to win it?

“It is a competition we all benefit from and, at the end of the day, there is no such thing as a bad medal to win.”

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Danny Coyne, released by Middlesbrough at the end of last season, is training with the Blades as Wilson continues to search for a replacement for the injured Mark Howard, who is out until Christmas.

Wilson will leave a decision on the one-time Wales international until next week but the United chief does want to conclude talks over a deal to keep Neill Collins at the Lane beyond next summer.

He added: “We are talking to Neil about a new deal and it is all going along very nicely. Neil has had a terrific 16 months or so since I came to the club. Not only have his performances on the pitch been first class but he is also a great role model for the younger lads.”

Last six games: Notts County DWDLLW, Sheffield United DWDWWD.

Last time: Notts County 2 Sheffield United 5; March 20, 2012; League One.

Referee: K Stroud (Hampshire).