Sheffield United v West Ham United
Saturday 14th April
Bramall Lane
Kick off: 3pm
Team News:
Matthew Upson and Danny Gabbidon are still ruled out, with the
latter having suffered a set-back in his bid to recover from a
nasty groin injury. Nigel Quashie is also still making his way back
from injury, but Calum Davenport is fit again after a foot problem
and is included in the squad travelling to Bramall Lane.
George McCartney has also recovered from illness after being forced off at half-time during the 1-0 win over Arsenal on Saturday, while Jimmy Walker is likely to be on the bench in place of Roy Carroll, who has suffered a shin injury.
Sheffield United are missing Rob Hulse, who is out for the rest
of the season with a broken leg, while Danny Webber and Christian
Nade are both doubtful. Phil Jagielka is expected to be fit for The
Blades, having recovered from a recent groin injury.
Background:
Sheffield United will be hoping to continue an impressive record
against West Ham United at Bramall Lane, having won 22 and lost
only 10 of the 41 league games played between the two clubs.
The previous match played between the two at Bramall Lane was an FA
Cup fourth round replay in February 2005, when the two sides shared
a 1-1 draw before the hosts won through after a penalty
shoot-out.
However, the last league encounter at Bramall Lane ended in a
2-1 victory for Hammers in September 2004, with goals from Marlon
Harewood and Teddy Sheringham securing the points.
Sheffield United have a record of two wins, two draws, and two
defeats in their last six home games. The Blades have scored seven
goals in these games, but conceded eight.
A victory for Hammers on Saturday would take them above Neil
Warnock's men in the Premiership table and also out of the
relegation zone for at least 24 hours above Charlton, who face
Everton on Sunday
Stats:
Sheffield United have failed to win in their previous two home
matches, and their last three games have ended in defeat.
Tickets and travel:
Tickets for the fixture are sold out. For information on travelling
to Bramall Lane click here
.
Weather:
The forecast for tomorrow is bright and sunny, with predicted highs
of up to 22C.