Burton Albion v Sheffield United: Porter offering signs of his value to Blades

This Johnstone’s Paint Trophy first-round match sees the Blades travel to the Brewers, whose boss was a livewire striker in his playing days at Bramall Lane.

Peschisolido’s time with Sheffield United – he made 79 appearances, scoring 17 goals – is best remembered for the 2002-03 season when he helped the Blades reach the semi-finals of the FA Cup and League Cup, as well as the (then) Division One play-off final.

The Pirelli Stadium tonight will be a far cry from a packed Old Trafford on April 13, 2003 when United lost to the Gunners in the FA Cup semi-finals, Freddie Ljungberg’s 34th-minute effort proving decisive.

But the competition does offer a trip to Wembley for the finalists, although Blades manager Danny Wilson will have to make tonight’s trip without injured captain Nick Montgomery.

The influential midfielder hurt his ankle and was stretchered off in Saturday’s 1-0 win at Yeovil as the Blades maintained their unbeaten League One run and joint-top position.

The only goal of the match on Saturday came from summer signing Chris Porter.

Wilson is keen for the striker, who signed a two-year deal after being released by Derby County, to build his match fitness after a spell on the sidelines through injury.

Wilson commented: “Chris still needs games, but I think we saw what he is all about.

“He brings others into the game well and is able to get himself in the right place at the right time.”

Last time: Never played each other.

Last six games: Burton DLDDWL, Sheffield United DWWDLW.

Referee: P Gibbs (W Midlands).