A rocking atmosphere is expected at Bramall Lane tonight, with two high-fliers set to battle out at the top of the Sky-Bet Championship.
Sheffield United take on Sunderland, with both sides knowing a win would put them top of the league.
United manager Chris Wilder was pleased with his side’s performance on Tuesday, which saw the team beat Oxford 3-0.
This continued the Blades’ strong home form, with them now winning seven straight without conceding a goal at Bramall Lane.
Wilder is looking for his side to build on this consistency, ahead of tonight’s clash.
He said: “We need big performances individually that lead to a team performance which hopefully leads to a big three points.
“To go to the top of the table on Tuesday night was a great feeling for everybody.”
The side have since been leapfrogged by Leeds United at the top on goal difference, after they beat Luton 3-0 on Wednesday night.
It’s been a busy week in the Championship with two rounds of fixtures in quick succession, as the busy Christmas period looms.
United are without injured trio Rhian Brewster, Kieffer Moore and Oliver Arblaster for tonight’s game, along with defender Anel Ahmedhodzic, who is suspended.
Wilder spoke of other players in the team who are starting to pick up form in the absence of others.
He highlighted Tyrese Campbell, who has 4 goals in his last 5 games, saying that he has a “glint in his eye”, and has been a great summer addition for the Blades, offering balance to their forward line.
He said: “You want your centre forwards to score and he’s doing that at the moment and that’s great for everybody.”
Campbell is looking to become the first Sheffield United player to score in four consecutive league appearances since David McGoldrick back in January 2019.
Wilder also highlighted Jesurun Rak-Sakyi, who has impressed after arriving on loan from Crystal Palace.
He said: “Hopefully we can maintain this rich vein of form and results, and Jez will be a big part of that.”
When speaking about Sunderland, Wilder said he has full respect for how their manager, Regis Le Bris, has made them a “well coached team with a lot of youth.”
The away side, who are unbeaten since September, will move ahead of United with a win.
Sheffield United vs Sunderland takes place at Bramall Lane at 8pm tonight.
