Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Championship match.
On Saturday, the Riverside plays host to a fixture that would have sounded almost unthinkable before the season began: Middlesbrough sitting second in the Championship and Sheffield United bottom of the table. Yet, that is the reality as we head into Round 4.
Middlesbrough
Both clubs changed managers in the summer, and so far Rob Edwards has settled quicker with his new side. His appointment raised eyebrows after last year’s struggles at Luton Town, but let’s not forget he also guided Luton into the Premier League. If Middlesbrough continue this way, they too could push for promotion. The team remains perfect — no points dropped, only one goal conceded. Recruitment has been steady, and Wednesday’s loan capture of Matt Targett from Newcastle United, their seventh signing, looks a solid piece of business. Should the full-back get back to full fitness, he could add real depth to an already well-balanced squad.
Sheffield United
Sheffield United are in the grip of second-season syndrome. Having failed to bounce straight back to the Premier League despite strong foundations, they now look a shadow of themselves. Rubén Sellés, recruited from Hull City, has yet to find solutions with this group. Four games, four defeats — including a Carabao Cup elimination by Birmingham (0:1). Some of it has been cruel luck: against Millwall last weekend (0:1) they hit the woodwork, saw goal-line clearances and were denied by a string of saves. But the bottom line is the same: zero points. If Sheffield United lose again here, an international break sacking for Rubén Sellés would hardly be a shock.
Middlesbrough vs Sheffield United Prediction
It’s not the easiest match to call. Sheffield United are cornered and will throw everything at ending their losing streak. But Middlesbrough are in fine form, clinical in front of goal — scoring 2.39 goals more than expected by xG so far. The safer play? Back Middlesbrough not to lose, while keeping faith that Sheffield United’s defence won’t ship more than two.
