Sheffield United host Bristol City this weekend in the opening weekend of the Championship season.
Sheffield United met Bristol City in the play-offs last season, with the Blades securing 3-0 victories in both legs. After losing in the final to Sunderland, SUFC will now be hoping to go a step further and get promoted back to the Premier League.
Over the summer, Chris Wilder was replaced by former Hull City boss Ruben Selles, who will be hoping to make a winning start to his time at Bramall Lane. Selles’ arrival has also been accompanied by player changes, leaving his ranks somewhat bare.
There have been notable departures for the Blades, including Vini Souza, Anel Ahmedhodzic and Rhian Brewster. There have also been arrivals at Bramall Lane, with sought-after winger Louie Barry joining the ranks, alongside Djibril Soumare, Tyler Bindon and Ehije Ukaki.
Image courtesy of: CRAIG BROUGH/REUTERS.
Bristol City surprised many last season after finishing 6th and reaching the play-offs, something they will aim to repeat this campaign as they prepare for their opener against Sheffield United.
However, there has also been large change at Ashton Gate, after Liam Manning’s move to Norwich City. He has been replaced by Austrian Gerhard Struber, who will aim to make a positive start to his tenure with the Robins.
There has also been movement for Bristol City in their striker position. Nahki Wells left the club to join Luton Town but has been replaced by Emil Riis, who scored 12 Championship goals for Preston North End last season.
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Here, a handful of our writers make their predictions for the game…
Jake Clipson-Cox
“The two sides met in the play-offs last season, with Sheffield United being comfortable winners on both occasions. However, with both teams under new management, they will be hoping to get off to a winning start to their respective campaigns.
“Both teams also have made new signings who will also hope to make an impact on their debuts, but I think the existing quality of SUFC will shine through.
Image courtesy of: THILO SCHMUELGEN/REUTERS.
“I expect the Blades to control the game, with Bristol City being away from home and struggling to create opportunities and suffering an opening day defeat.”
Prediction Sheffield United 2-0 Bristol City
James Ray
“I am a little bit worried about Sheffield United coming into the season opener. Ruben Selles really needs backing in the transfer market if he’s to emulate or improve on Chris Wilder’s efforts last season, with key areas left bare and current business not exactly setting the world alight.
“There was a big gap between these two in the play-offs last season, and I think that has narrowed. Bristol City’s summer recruitment hasn’t been extensive, but it’s been smart.
“I think we could get a close game here, with the Robins grinding out a good point against SUFC.”
Prediction: Sheffield United 1-1 Bristol City
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