Aston Villa will be looking to keep their pursuit of European football on track when they travel to rock bottom Sheffield United in the Premier League on Wednesday.
Villa pitch up at Bramall Lane perched 9th in the top flight table and 6 points adrift of the Champions League places, albeit with some games in hand over sides above them.
Although finishing in the top 4 is not out of the question, the realists amongst the Villa ranks would argue that attacking the Europa League places may be a more achievable target.
Dean Smith’s side will look to build on their win over Leeds United last time out, where they were without skipper Jack Grealish for the victory.
Grealish, who Blades boss Chris Wilder labelled “the best player in England” will also be absent for the trip to Bramall Lane as he continues to recover from a lower leg problem.
Grealish joins Matty Cash, Wesley and Kortney Hause on the sidelines, whilst goalkeeper Emi Martinez may make a return from a tight groin subject to a late fitness test.
Sheffield United meanwhile are stuck on 11 points and prop up the Premier League table, with injuries playing a major role in their miserable season so far.
With it almost inevitable that the Blades will be playing in the Championship again next season, Chris Wilder’s side are now almost playing for pride.
And with their 11-point haul so far the joint-worst in Premier League history, they’ll be keen to avoid another unwanted record this season if nothing else.
The Blades still remain without a number of key performers, a theme which has contributed heavily to their struggle this term.
John Egan, Chris Basham, Sander Berge, Jayden Bogle, Jack Robinson and Jack O’Connell all remain sidelined.
Sheffield United v Aston Villa is a 6pm kick off on Wednesday 3rd March.
To hear this story on your smart speaker, just ask: “Open Sport Social and play me the Sheffield United v Aston Villa match preview.”