Burton Albion vs Sheffield United. Sky Bet Championship.
Pirelli StadiumAttendance5,167.
Thursday 16 November 2017 17:38, UK
Burton are unlikely to make significant changes to a winning team as they welcome high-flying Sheffield United to the Pirelli Stadium.
A 1-0 victory over Millwall last time out was their first in nine attempts and boss Nigel Clough will look to keep a similar formula. Right-back continues to be an area of concern with John Brayford injured, with centre-half Kyle McFadzean deputising when needed.
Marvin Sordell should once again keep Luke Akins out up front, having scored the winner last time out, and Stephen Warnock stands by if needed at the back.
Sheffield United goalkeeper Jamal Blackman is back in contention after missing the recent home win against Hull due to a back injury. Simon Moore stepped in for Blackman, who returned to full training this week, and boss Chris Wilder must choose between them.
Defender George Baldock (hamstring) could also return to contention after missing out against Hull, but will be assessed. Striker Ched Evans (ankle) and defender Kieron Freeman (knee) are Wilder's only injury absentees as his side bid for a fifth win in six league matches.
This is the first meeting between the sides since March 2016, a 1-0 win for Burton in League One at Bramall Lane.
The Blades have never lost at the Pirelli Stadium (W1 D1), with the last meeting a goalless draw in September 2015.
Nigel Clough - who managed 104 games for Sheffield United between 2013 and 2015 - has won his last two meetings with his former club, winning both games 1-0 with Derby (February 2011) and Burton (March 2016).
Burton have never lost a league match against the Sheffield clubs, winning two and drawing three.
Leon Clarke has been involved in 10 goals in 12 Championship starts this season (eight goals, two assists) - Clarke scored all four of Sheffield United's goals in their 4-1 win over Hull in their last game.
Clayton Donaldson has scored five goals in six Football League matches against Burton, including a hat-trick in March 2011 for Crewe Alexandra. Donaldson also scored against the Brewers in the Conference for York City in August 2006 during Nigel Clough's first spell in charge.
