Saturday 15 January 2011

Coventry v Sheffield United Preview

This game sees new Sheffield United manager Micky Adams return to Coventry, another side that he once managed. Adams is still looking for his first win as the Blades’ boss and with United sat just one place above the drop zone, he certainly needs it quickly. Their opponents meanwhile are in a much more stable position and despite early flirtations with the top six, Aidy Boothroyd will be satisfied with their position of 11th.

While Coventry approach this game in a comfortable position, their recent form is absolutely dreadful and Sheffield United should feel they have an excellent chance of netting all the points. It wasn’t too long ago that the Sky Blues were up in the playoffs, yet an accumulation of just two points from a possible eighteen has sent them tumbling down the table. However, while their league form has been poor, they at least head into this game on the back of a victory following a 2-1 win over Crystal Palace in the Cup last weekend. Despite the slump in form, Boothroyd’s men still have everything to play for with just four points separating them from the playoff places.

Sheffield United on the other hand are in all sorts of turmoil, although their supporters will hope that once Micky Adams has settled at the club then everything will smooth out. The Blades have endured a truly awful season and after picking up just twenty six points, they sit just one place above the drop zone in 21st position. Adams has yet to record a victory as their manager although in fairness, supporters have commented on an improvement in performances since he joined the club. However, the main issue at Bramall Lane is the lack of goals and having scored just twenty five so far, they have the worst record in front of goal in the division. If that statistic doesn’t improve, there’s no doubt that they’ll be hovering around the relegation zone for the foreseeable future.

On the team news front, Coventry are preparing to be without striker Marlon King again as the former Watford man completes his three match suspension. On a more positive note, Aidy Boothroyd will be able to select both Lee Carsley and Sammy Clingan who have recovered from their knocks. Sheffield United meanwhile could hand debuts to new loan signings Shane Lowry and Joe Mattock. Elsewhere, Lee Williamson is a definite absentee through a groin problem, while Stephen Quinn will come back into contention following a suspension.

As for a prediction, we think Sheffield United could just about get the win here. Coventry are in truly awful form and with Micky Adams desperate for his first win as United’s manager, we think he could get it at his former club

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