Premier League side Sheffield United play host to League One Lincoln City at Bramall Lane on Wednesday night as the two teams go head-to-head in EFL Cup action.
Key Takeaways
- Sheffield United have had a tough start to life back in the English top tier and have suffered three straight defeats
- After suffering an opening-day defeat, Lincoln City have been in excellent form and have won all but one of their five games since
- The last time Sheffield United and Lincoln City met was back in 2000 in EFL Cup action
The hosts were knocked out by West Bromwich Albion in the first round of the EFL Cup last year, whilst the visitors were able to reach the fourth round before losing against Southampton.
Sheffield United Form
Tipped as one of the favourites to go down from the Premier League, the Blades have done very little to change opinion so far. Three defeats from three means it has been a poor start to the season. They have lost to Crystal Palace, Nottingham Forest and Manchester City to start the campaign.
The Bramall Lane crowd were sent into raptures last Sunday as a late Jayden Bogle goal tied things up with last season’s treble winners Man City. It was almost an incredible point but Rodri's goal just a couple of minutes from time would leave Sheffield United empty-handed.
Lincoln City Form
The Imps got off to a poor start to the season with a 3-0 defeat away to Bolton. However, they have turned things around since and have gone unbeaten in their next five matches, winning four in the process.
They recorded a comprehensive 3-0 victory at home to Blackpool last time out thanks to goals from Daniel Mandroiu, Ethan Erhahon and Teddy Bishop. Sitting just two points off the top of the table, it has been a solid start to the season for Lincoln.
Head-to-Head
The last time these two sides met in competitive action was back in 2000. That fixture was also during the EFL Cup as Lincoln ran out 1-0 winners. However, Sheffield United had won 6-1 in the first leg.
Team News
Paul Heckingbottom will continue to be without a host of names for this one. The likes of Rhian Brewster, Anis Slimane, John Fleck, Daniel Jebbison, Max Lowe, Rhys Norrington-Davies and Ben Osborn are all set to miss out.
The Imps will be without Lewis Montsma due to long-term injury but should have a strong selection available. Head coach Mark Kennedy may opt to rest some of his starters as they bid to earn promotion this term.
Key Players
Heckingbottom could be set to make a number of changes to rest some of his regulars for the cup match. Defender Anel Ahmedhodzic would be key if he was to feature. Forward Oli McBurnie could be recalled to the starting line-up after recovering from injury. He would provide a threat up top.
Mandroiu has been superb so far this term and has managed to get five goal contributions in five appearances so far in League One this season. Midfielder Bishop has also stood out with three goal contributions himself, including a goal last time out.
How to watch on TV or Online
This match is not available to watch on TV or online in the UK.
Final Thoughts
The hosts are the clear favourites due to their superiority in the English football pyramid. Heckingbottom will be keen for his side to pick up some momentum in this one after their poor start and they should advance into the next round.
EFL Cup
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