Preview: Bristol Rovers vs. Sheffield United - prediction, team news, lineups

Premier League outfit Sheffield United head into their FA Cup third round tie at Bristol Rovers still looking for their first win of the season in all competitions.

Meanwhile, Rovers, who sit in 18th position in League One, have reached this stage of the FA Cup with victories over Walsall and Darlington.

Match preview

Having pushed so hard for Europa League qualification earlier in the year, Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder could not have envisaged that his side would go 18 matches without success since the start of September.

Wilder's standing at Bramall Lane means that the club's hierarchy have, so far, stuck with their previously-successful manager, but games such as this one could prove pivotal.

A defeat, which would be United's 16th of the campaign in all competitions, would leave a close-knit group of players further at odds with why things have transpired in the manner that they have all season.

Wilder would also find himself on the brink of the sack ahead of the club's all-important Premier League meeting against Newcastle United in midweek.

Changes will be made by Wilder, although he is likely to show preference to giving big-money signing Rhian Brewster another chance to finally get off the mark for the Blades.

Sitting just three points above the League One relegation zone, Rovers and their manager Paul Tisdale will view this contest as a welcome distraction from the pressures of the third tier.

Nevertheless, there is genuine hope that they are capable of pulling off the upset at the weekend having put together some wins since the beginning of December.

Having been involved in just two matches since December 12, Rovers are also well-rested for this tie, something which can only play into their favour after a busy start to the season.

Brandon Hanlan and Sam Nicholson got on the scoresheet during the 2-1 win over Blackpool on January 2, taking their tallies for the season to seven and six strikes respectively.

Bristol Rovers FA Cup form: WW Bristol Rovers form (all competitions): LWWWLW

Sheffield United form (all competitions): LLDLLL

Team News

Amid a number of coronavirus cases at the club, Wilder is likely to bide his time before selecting his Sheffield United XI.

However, Michael Verrips, Kean Bryan, Max Lowe and Brewster are expected to be among the players who are restored to the side.

Having had a week to prepare for this contest, Tisdale could opt to name the same starting lineup.

Mark Little is an option down the Rovers right-hand side after recently returning to the squad for the first time since September.

Bristol Rovers possible starting lineup: Stappershoef; Ehmer, Kilgour, Baldwin, Leahy; Westbrooke, Upson, McCormick; Oztumer; Hanlan, Nicholson

Sheffield United possible starting lineup: Verrips; Ampadu, Egan, Bryan; Bogle, Basham, Norwood, Fleck, Lowe; Brewster, McGoldrick

We say: Bristol Rovers 1-3 Sheffield United

Several factors are in Rovers' favour heading into this contest, including five wins coming from seven matches. However, despite their abysmal form in the Premier League, it would come as a surprise if the Blades do not battle their way to victory on Saturday.

Top betting tip

Our expert tipster partners at Sporita.com are predicting under 3.5 goals in this match. Click here to find out what else they are predicting for this game and for more of their tried-and-tested football tips.