Sheffield United last met Oxford United during the 1998/99 seasons campaign. The Blades had won 2-0 at the former Manor Ground, but a late Nicky Banger goal gave the U’s a 2-1 win at Bramall Lane later in the season.
Last season the Blades were eliminated at the third round stage of the FA Cup; losing 3-1 at home to Aston Villa. They had taken the lead through Kyle Walker (9 minutes) and Marc Albrighton (33) before Jamie Ward’s (48) penalty gave the home side little hope.
On 77 minutes Ashley Young (now with Manchester United) picked up his second booking of the day and was dismissed before three minutes into added on time Stilian Petrov round things off for the Villa.
Blades boss Danny Wilson will be without Chris Morgan (knee), Andy Taylor (knee), Lee Williamson and Johannes Ertl (knee) are all sidelined through injury ahead of our clash with the U’s today.
Meanwhile on-loan Blackpool pair Billy Clarke and Matt Phillips won’t be available after the duo returned the Bloomfield Road following the end of their one month’s loan deal.
Last season Oxford United went out at the first time of asking, in round one at Burton Albion; losing 1-0 to an Aaron Webster goal five minutes from time.
The U’s are unlikely to field striker Danny Philliskirk, he is currently on loan from Sheffield United and playing him would cup-tie him for any possible future FA Cup games this season for United.
Injury wise they have a long list; Damian Batt (ankle) and Liam Davis will undergo late fitness tests, whilst former Leeds United defender Michael Duberry (groin) is ruled out. Adam Chapman, Tony Capaldi (back), Anthony Tonkin (hamstring), Andy Haworth (ankle) and Ryan James are also sidelined through injury.
Meanwhile keeper Wayne Brown was dismissed in their Johnston’s paint Trophy defeat and will sit out a one match suspension, so too will striker Tom Craddock who also saw a red card.
:: Head-to-Head ::
|
|
P |
W |
D |
L |
|
League |
24 |
11 |
5 |
8 |
|
FA Cup |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
League Cup |
1 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
|
Total |
25 |
11 |
5 |
9 |