Sheffield United vs. Crawley Town

Last updated : 03 October 2013 By @blades_mad1889

A 2-0 defeat at Wolverhampton Wanderers last weekend extended their baron spell to six straight defeats; another one tonight will equal a club record of seven consecutive defeats set during the 1975/76 season. Should the Red Devils claim victory at the Lane then this unwanted record could be broken at Coventry City a week on Sunday.

Blades boss David Weir is expected to be without forward Jamie Murphy (groin) through injury but striker Shaun Miller (knee) is close to returning to the squad after a lengthy spell out injured.

Joe Walsh netted his fourth goal of the season to earn a one-nil victory over Oldham Athletic, a result which takes them to 8th in the table and three points tonight (prior to the commencement of tomorrow's fixtures) would see them steal 6th spot off MK Dons.

Town should be at full strength as they will see veteran striker Gary Alexander available for selection, he returns from a three match ban after being sent off in the 3-2 victory at home to Gillingham and has since missed the games against Shrewsbury Town (1-1), Colchester United (1-1) and Oldham Athletic.

Red Devils boss Ritchie Barker is likely to field defender Kyle McFadzean and forward Billy Clarke to face their former club. McFadzean, older brother of Callum was on Sheffield United's books between September 2005 and October 2006 in the Academy- he left to join non-leaguers Alfreton Town having failed to make any professional appearances with the Blades.

Clarke was signed on loan from then club Blackpool in October 2011 and caused a media frenzy when he (along with Matt Phillips) helped United win 4-2 at Preston on their debuts. Clarke failed to score to created two assists and netted his first goal in a 4-4 home draw with Exeter City before (in November) returning to Bloomfield Road having made 6 appearances and scored once.

Blades-Mad Prediction: Sheffield United 1 Crawley Town 1