As the Premier League season comes to a close this Sunday, Sheffield United hosts Tottenham Hotspur in a match with significant implications for the visitors.
Tottenham needs at least a point to secure 5th place and a spot in next season's Europa League, while Sheffield United aims to end a dismal season on a positive note.
Sheffield United's return to the Premier League has been nothing short of disastrous. The Blades have been relegated for a few rounds now, having won just 3 of their 37 matches this season.
Full-time at @SpursStadium ⏱️ pic.twitter.com/kWGKOPWrAv— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) May 14, 2024
Full-time at @SpursStadium ⏱️ pic.twitter.com/kWGKOPWrAv
Their defensive frailties have been particularly glaring, with the team conceding 100 goals—the most ever conceded by any team in 36 Premier League matches.
Historically, this feat was only matched by Swindon Town, who needed 42 matches in the 1993/94 campaign to reach the same number.
Sheffield United has also allowed 2 or more goals in each of their last 10 home matches across all competitions.
Currently on a six-match losing streak, the Blades will hope to salvage some pride but face a tough task against a motivated Spurs side.
Tottenham Hotspur, meanwhile, have had their own share of ups and downs.
Their midweek clash against Manchester City ended in a 2-0 defeat, a result that did little to improve their recent form of just one win in their last six Premier League games.
Despite their struggles, Tottenham's quality has often shone through, with key players like Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne showing their mettle in critical moments.
However, the team’s finishing has been inconsistent, as evidenced by missed opportunities in their match against City.
Manager Ange Postecoglou will be keen to secure a win and ensure their participation in the Europa League next season.
In head-to-head encounters, Tottenham has dominated Sheffield United, winning their last three league games against the Blades.
This history, coupled with Sheffield United’s poor form, suggests a favorable outcome for Spurs.
Both teams are dealing with significant injury concerns. Sheffield United's list of absentees includes Chris Basham, Max Lowe, Oliver McBurnie, and Rhys Norrington-Davies, with several others, including Andre Brooks, Ben Osborn, and George Baldock, doubtful for the fixture.
Tottenham also faces a lengthy injury list, with Ben Davies, Destiny Udogie, Fraser Forster, Manor Solomon, Richarlison, Ryan Sessegnon, Timo Werner, and Yves Bissouma all unavailable.
As Tottenham aims to secure their European future and Sheffield United looks to end on a high note, fans can anticipate an engaging and competitive match.
Forebet predicts a win for Tottenham Hotspur with over 2.5 goals scored, underscoring the expectation of a high-scoring affair to close out the season.