The bottom two in the Premier League go head-to-head on Tuesday as Sheffield United welcome West Bromwich Albion to Bramall Lane.
The Blades are rooted to the foot of the table with just eight points to their name, although second-bottom West Brom are only four points ahead.
Brilliant today, @AaronRamsdale98. 👏 pic.twitter.com/6hZtaYFqOm— Sheffield United (@SheffieldUnited) January 30, 2021
Brilliant today, @AaronRamsdale98. 👏 pic.twitter.com/6hZtaYFqOm
Needless to say, the result of this six-pointer could have a huge say in the outcome of this season’s relegation battle.
In fairness, Sheff Utd’s performance have improved of late, and that has seen Chris Wilder’s men pick up a number of positive results.
After failing to win any of their opening games this term (2 draws, 15 losses), the Blades have now won two of their previous four league outings.
Wilder’s side beat Newcastle 1-0 before losing to Tottenham 3-1. However, they bounced straight back with a shock 2-1 victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford.
Last time out, Sheffield United pushed Manchester City all the way at the Etihad Stadium, yet they eventually lost 1-0.
Still, a couple of recent FA Cup wins mean that Sheff Utd have won four of their last six matches in all competitions. Things are definitely looking up for the Blades.
It’s fair to say that West Brom are also struggling. The Baggies parted ways with Slaven Bilic in December, with Sam Allardyce taking the reins at the Hawthorns.
However, they have only managed to win one of their eight Premier League games since Big Sam arrived, recording five defeats and two draws along the way.
Having conceded 50 goals in just 21 matches, the Baggies have the worst defensive record in the division by some distance.
Given that Sheff Utd have only conceded 34 times this term, it’s remarkable that West Bromwich sit four points clear of the Blades.
West Brom came from behind to take a 2-1 lead against Fulham last time out, but a late Ivan Cavaleiro goal ultimately saw the two sides share the points.
Head-to-head: In the reverse fixture back in November, West Brom beat Sheff Utd 1-0, with Conor Gallagher scoring the only goal of the game.
Sheff Utd have only managed to win one of their last six meetings with West Brom, registering two draws and three losses since 2008.
Let’s be honest – both these side have been in poor form throughout 2020/21. However, it’s fair to say that West Brom have shown more promise than Sheff Utd.
Forebet predicts that both teams will score on Tuesday, but West Brom are expected to edge Sheff Utd at Bramall Lane.