Sheffield Wednesday v Sheffield United: Predicted XIs as both sides make bold changes
Sheffield Wednesday and Sheffield United are set to renew their intense rivalry.
After years in different divisions, the Steel City’s professional clubs were reacquainted in a fiery derby back in November.
The Blades secured the bragging rights, edging past their fierce rivals with a goal from Tyrese Campbell.
Chris Wilder’s men have remained on course in their hunt for promotion to the Premier League, a feat the Owls are also chasing.
Wednesday may be outsiders for promotion but have enjoyed a strong start to the month and will fancy their chances of an upset on their home turf.
Ahead of a huge derby showdown, The Yorkshire Post have predicted how the two sides will line up at Hillsborough.
Sheffield Wednesday (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper: James Beadle
Has faced criticism at times this season, but is undeniably a talented stopper. Appears certain to start before he links up with England under-21s.
Right-back: Dominic Iorfa
A more pragmatic option than Pol Valentin, Iorfa’s defensive steel may be called upon for the derby challenge.
Centre-back: Michael Ihiekwe
His future as an Owl looked uncertain in the winter window but he has enjoyed a resurgence of late.
Centre-back: Max Lowe
The former Blade will face a chorus of boos from the travelling fans - but he has become incredibly important for the Owls.
Left-back: Ryo Hatuse
He has made a bright start to his Wednesday career and will be fresh having dropped out for Marvin Johnson in midweek.
Central midfield: Nathaniel Chalobah
An impressive showing from the bench against Norwich City may well have landed Chalobah a derby start. His defensive nous could prove key against Sheffield United’s talented midfield.
Central midfield: Shea Charles
A player previously eyed by Sheffield United, Charles will most likely be one of the first names on the teamsheet.
Central midfield/attacking midfield: Barry Bannan
Charles may well be one of the first, but the Owls captain will most likely be the first. The deployment of Chalobah as a midfield enforcer could free Bannan up to conduct attacks with more freedom.
Right wing: Josh Windass
Another who looks nailed on to start at Hillsborough. The tricky playmaker will be brimming with confidence after registering a goal and an assist in midweek.
Left wing: Djeidi Gassama
Has come into his own as an attacking outlet for the Owls and appears set to be tasked with tormenting the Blades.
Forward: Callum Paterson
Like Ihiekwe, Paterson has enjoyed a revival at Wednesday. His physicality may be crucial if the Owls are to unsettle the Blades.
Sheffield United (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper: Michael Cooper
Has there been a better goalkeeper in the Championship this season? Many would argue there has not been.
Right-back: Femi Seriki
Injury has deprived Wilder of the services of Alfie Gilchrist and Harry Clarke recently - therefore responsibility may again fall on Seriki’s shoulders.
Centre-back: Anel Ahmedhodzic
He made an appearance off the bench in midweek and temptation to start the imposing defender in such an important game may prove strong.
Centre-back: Jack Robinson
Robinson has not missed a league game since early November. His absence would come as a surprise.
Left-back: Harrison Burrows
Not always the most solid defensively, but could cause Wednesday some real problems in the final third.
Central midfield: Hamza Choudhury
A tight call. Sydie Peck would relish the cut and thrust of the derby but Choudhury’s status as a more seasoned professional gives him the edge here.
Central midfield: Vinicius Souza
The midfielder is on the comeback trail and temptation to start him may just prove too strong if he is fit enough.
Attacking midfield: Gustavo Hamer
Following his absence from the starting XI in midweek, Hamer will be raring to go. He delivered a classy display in the derby back in November.
Right wing: Jesurun Rak-Sakyi
The on-loan Crystal Palace wideman has not been electric of late, but has the tools to cut Wednesday open.
Left wing: Ben Brereton Diaz
A regular fixture since his return to Bramall Lane, a start for the Chile international appears probable.
Forward: Tyrese Campbell
He wrote his name into the history books by scoring the winner against Wednesday in November and would love to do so again.