Sheffield United are set to host Cardiff City in the FA Cup third round clash. Sheffield enter this game fresh off a hard fought 2-1 win over Watford which ended a three game winless run and kept them in the Championship promotion race. For Cardiff the FA Cup has been a challenging competition in recent years as they have crashed out at the third round in each of the last four seasons.
Chris Wilder’s side sits third on the table and are just one point behind Championship leaders Leeds United as their FA Cup campaign offers another chance to build momentum. Sheffield also
boasts the best defence in the league. Now, despite some recent home struggles with them failing to win against Burnley and West Brom, Sheffield will take confidence from their dominance over Cardiff. The Blades have won their last five encounters with the Bluebirds including a 2-0 league victory in South Wales last month. Historically they also claimed their last FA Cup title in 1925 by beating Cardiff in the final.
Cardiff City arrive at Bramall Lane with a new sense of resilience under interim manager Omer Riza. After enduring a nine game winless streak the Bluebirds have collected five points from their last three Championship games. However, Cardiff remain 23rd on the table, sitting in the relegation zone on goal difference. Cardiff also have some defensive troubles as they have conceded 40 times in 25 league games. Adding to their woes they have lost their last four FA Cup away games and conceding heavily. Still Riza will hope his side will manage an upset as they face a tough test in Sheffield.
The Blades are managing a lengthy injury list including Oliver Arblaster, Harry Souttar and Femi Seriki. Midfielders Gustavo Hamer, Callum O'Hare and Tom Davies face late fitness tests. Ryan One may lead the attack again as the 18 year old talent continues to impress. Cardiff will miss Isaak Davies, Aaron Ramsey and suspended top scorer Callum Robinson. Rubin Colwill could start up front supported by Yakou Meite and Chris Willock. Perry Ng is expected to return in defense.
Sheffield United possible lineup: Davies; Gilchrist, Ahmedhodzic, Baptiste, McCallum; Hampson, Peck; Brooks, O'Hare, Brewster; One
Cardiff City possible lineup: Alnwick; Ng, Goutas, Daland, O'Dowda; Siopis, Chambers; Tanner, Robertson, Willock; Colwill
SHEFFIELD VS CARDIFF
1.84
SHEFFIELD UNITED - WINNER
