Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Championship match.
Just a few rounds ago, Sunderland were ahead in the standings. Now, they find themselves fourth, two points adrift of league leaders Leeds United. They also trail Sheffield United by the same margin. In this head-to-head encounter, Sunderland have the chance to overtake at least Sheffield United. The challenge is intensified by the fact that this fixture will be an away match. Undoubtedly, the match of the round.
Sheffield United
Sheffield United, as is their tradition, secured a clean sheet victory against another opponent, but this time delivered it in style with a commanding 3:0 win. Oxford United were on the receiving end. This result extends their home streak of victories without conceding to seven matches. Sheffield United achieved this latest triumph without their most expensive player, 25-year-old centre-back Anel Ahmedhodzic, who remains suspended following a red card in their draw with Coventry City (2:2) in matchday 16. This could increase Sunderland's potential to find the net.
Sunderland
Sunderland have not won in their last five outings, yet they haven't suffered a single defeat either. They have been involved in high-scoring draws just twice — against Coventry City (2:2) and Millwall (1:1). Their problem might lie in their dependency on their striking duo, who have scored 9 out of their 26 goals. Although that's just a third, it's significant. Wilson Isidor, with five goals, last scored against Coventry in the 15th round, assisted by Romaine Mundle, who set up both goals in that match. Unfortunately, the young Englishman is likely sidelined for the rest of the year due to a hamstring injury, leaving Isidor with little support.
Sheffield United vs Sunderland Prediction
Sheffield United have not only been dominant at home but have also consistently outplayed Sunderland. In the 2022/23 season, they won both times with 2:1 scorelines. The last time Sunderland secured a win against them was in the 2019/20 League Cup (1:0 away), but that's a different story altogether. We're going with a win for the hosts.
