The Championship is one of the most unpredictable leagues in the world and never more so when it provides punters with a derby.
They don’t come much more heated than the Steel City Derby where Sheffield United take on their bitter rivals Sheffield Wednesday. Two of the most historic sides in England, they share five league titles and seven FA Cups between them despite not meeting in the top division since 1994.
Latest odds
The Blades have had the bragging rights in Sheffield as of late, taking four points from Wednesday last season as well as finishing five places above The Owls.
This campaign has seen more of the same with United flying high in third place whereas Friday’s visitors are sitting in 17th. Unsurprisingly, United are favourites, with Bet365 pricing them up at 8/15 (1.53) , the draw is at 10/3 (4.33) whereas a Wednesday victory is 6/1 (7.0) .
Team news
Defender Chris Basham returns for Sheffield United after serving missing out on the defeat to Nottingham Forest last weekend through suspension, Mark Duffy is a doubt as he continues to struggle with injury.
Sheffield Wednesday have a full squad to choose from and there could be changes a plenty after their embarrassing 4-0 defeat to Norwich last weekend.
Preview
The form points towards this being a routine win for Sheffield United. Last season’s 4-2 win at Hillsborough still hasn’t been forgotten between these two sets of fans and this game could end in a similar fashion.
Both teams posses a lot of talent in their squads but there is the feeling that the game will be won or lost in midfield. John Fleck and Oliver Norwood have been two of the Championship’s standout performers this year and Barry Bannan can produce when it matters for The Owls.
As November rolls around again Sheffield United fans will remember Leon Clarke’s excellent record this time last year as he netted nine goals in just four games last November. If he can replicate that type of form this year then we could see a one sided affair at Bramall Lane.
Tips and predictions
With Mark Duffy a doubt Leon Clarke could return to the starting XI and his excellent record in November could mean the 6/5 (2.20) for him to score anytime is a good option.
United have won five of their eight home league games this term while Wednesday have tasted defeat in five of their away trips this term.
The derby atmosphere should work in the Blades’ favour and they should take full advantage of a team that have conceded 30 times already this season, meaning Wednesday boast the joint-worst defence in the second tier.
As a result, the best bet of the day is Sheffield United (-1) on the handicap result at 13/10 (2.30) with bet365. This bet will pay out if the home side win by at least a two-goal margin.
Back Sheffield United to win -1 handicap at 13/10 (2.30) for a 1pt stake with bet365
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