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Blackburn could stay in the play-off race by defeating Sheffield United

Blackburn could stay in the play-off race by defeating Sheffield United

The top two and bottom two teams have already been decided but there is still a lot at stake on the final day of the Championship season on Saturday.

Sheffield United missed out on automatic promotion to the Premier League after Leeds and Burnley secured the top spots. Chris Wilder's team will now focus on the play-offs, as they are guaranteed third place regardless of Saturday's results.

Blackburn are aiming to secure a spot in the top six, with five teams vying for the last two play-off positions in the Championship.

Currently sitting in eighth place, Blackburn must defeat Bramall Lane to have a chance at the play-offs.

If Blackburn draw and Coventry lose, Blackburn will move above Coventry. However, Blackburn's position could be at risk if Middlesbrough secures a victory against Coventry, as Middlesbrough would then move ahead of Blackburn.

Valerien Ismael's team will be focused on earning a win and could pose a threat to Sheffield United.

Team news

Sheffield United will be without defenders Harry Clarke and Rhys Norrington-Davies, as well as midfielders Oliver Arblaster and Tom Davies.

Blackburn are expected to maintain their current lineup for the game but will be missing Hayden Carter, Harry Leonard, Owen Beck, Scott Wharton, and Andreas Weimann.

The stats

Sheffield United, managed by Chris Wilder, failed to secure automatic promotion and placed third in the league, regardless of their last game's outcome.
Sheffield United, managed by Chris Wilder, failed to secure automatic promotion and placed third in the league, regardless of their last game's outcome.

Blackburn have won their last four Championship matches, scoring a total of 8 goals and conceding 2.

Sheffield United have had mixed results in their recent home games, with three wins, one draw, and two defeats in their last six league matches at Bramall Lane.

Blackburn have scored in 14 of their 22 home games in this season's Championship.

Prediction

Sheffield United's season ended in disappointment as they narrowly missed out on automatic promotion despite accumulating 89 points before the final day.

Having suffered three consecutive defeats in April, Sheffield United's form took a hit, although they managed to secure two wins in their last three games against relegated Cardiff and relegation-threatened Stoke.

Chris Wilder may opt to rotate the squad ahead of the play-offs while Blackburn will be determined to secure a victory to keep their play-off hopes alive.

Blackburn are in great form, winning their last four matches against Luton, Millwall, Sunderland, and Watford, which should boost their confidence going into the game at Bramall Lane.

For bettors, backing Blackburn in the draw-no-bet market could be a wise choice, as stakes are refunded in case of a draw.