Southampton travel to Sheffield United looking for long awaited win

Billy Sharp and Co. Celebrate their first Premier League goal since 2007 - Mark Kerton/PA Wire

Southampton make the long trip up north to Sheffield as the face their red and white striped compatriots, hoping to beat the Blades for the first time since 2008.

That record comes with the caveat that these sides have met just three times since that day, when Stern John pulled Southampton through a 3-2 win and safety in the Championship.

Since then, both sides have endured turbulent times, but both have worked their way back to the Premier League, with Sheffield United gaining promotion last season, finishing second in the second tier.

Chris Wilder has worked wonders with his squad, and has been credited with a tactical approach which is baffling managers and analysts alike. He has managed this with a small budget, and squad, one that contains a number of former Southampton players.

Billy Sharp and David McGoldrick have turned out for the Saints earlier in their careers, Sharp scoring in the match which gained them promotion back to the Premier League. But they will all be hoping to get one over on their former employers this time around.

Team news

Wilder is hoping he can call on a trio who are set for late fitness tests to determine if they can partake in this vital clash. John Fleck, Callum Robinson and McGoldrick have all carried knocks which need assessing prior to the game.

Southampton will be without star man Nathan Redmond, whilst Moussa Djenepo may miss out due to a lack of intense training. Ryan Bertrand and Micheal Obafemi should return, but Kevin Danso is suspended after his reckless red card in the draw against Manchester United.

Chris Wilder

Hopeful of getting his players fit, Wilder said:

“A couple of the Irish boys came back early but I believe Mick [McCarthy, Ireland boss] was going to change the team around on Tuesday anyway.

“That gave Callum and Dave the chance to come back and have treatment with us. We’ll give them every chance of being fit for Saturday.”

Ralph Hassenhuttl

Hassenhuttl was talking about the importance of the absent Redmond, as well as captain Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg whose contract situation is under scrutiny;

“He is the captain of the team and is always the player I have many conversations with. His opinion is important to me also.

“He showed in the last month that he is a real captain and always positive and trying to go forward. This is what we need. Like Nathan (Redmond), it is a good signal if Pierre decides to stay with us longer. We would be happy that is for sure and he is a very important player for our team.”

Head-to-head

Sheffield United have come out of the last two meetings victorious, the last time being a League Cup victory which still leaves some Saints fans with a bitter taste in their mouth. The all time record between these two sides are 25 wins for Sheffield United, 16 wins for Southampton and 13 draws between the two.