Leeds United are fully focused on their upcoming challenge against Sunderland, but it’s hard to ignore the massive test that follows. On February 24, they face Sheffield United at Bramall Lane in what could be a decisive clash in the Championship title race.
Sheffield United reclaimed the top spot in the table with a 1-0 victory at Luton on Saturday. The Blades have played twice since Leeds last took to the field, also securing a dominant 4-0 win over Watford on Tuesday. However, Leeds now have a game in hand, which they will play on Monday night against Sunderland at Elland Road. While a battle between first and fourth is usually a major fixture, Leeds’ trip to Bramall Lane the following week carries even greater significance, with first place on the line.
Gustavo Hamer Set to Face Leeds After Injury Scare
Leeds fans will be familiar with Sheffield United playmaker Gustavo Hamer, who has contributed to 12 goals this season. The club even saw a £13m bid for him rejected last summer. Hamer missed Saturday’s match against Luton after picking up a hamstring issue in the win over Middlesbrough, but Blades boss Chris Wilder has confirmed he will be fit to face Leeds.
“I wasn’t going to risk Gus today because of fatigue in his hamstring,” Wilder told The Sheffield Star, adding that Hamer will be available for the crucial showdown against Leeds.
Sheffield United are also nearing full strength after dealing with an injury crisis over the festive period. New striker Tom Cannon and target man Kieffer Moore will both be fit to play against Leeds.
“All three will be available for next week,” Wilder confirmed. “Tom just needed a little more time—if we had played Monday or Tuesday, he’d have been fit. As for Kieffer, we could have put him on the bench, but we felt a full week’s training was more beneficial.”
With Hamer, Cannon, and Moore all set to return, Leeds face an even tougher challenge at Bramall Lane. However, they can take confidence from their defensive solidity, having kept six consecutive clean sheets. Maintaining that streak against Sheffield United could be crucial in their title push.
