Match Preview: Sheffield Utd vs Sunderland AFC

Sunderland AFC aims to reclaim their winning form as they head to Bramall Lane to face the impressive Sheffield United in the Sky Bet Championship this Friday evening.

Chris Wilder's team has achieved five wins and one draw in their last six matches. As they head into the international break, they've established a solid unbeaten streak, highlighted by a memorable 1-0 win in the Steel City Derby against Sheffield Wednesday.

Upon their return, the Blades met Coventry City and ended up with only a single point after a thrilling match that finished 2-2. The first half featured goals from Tyrese Campbell and Jesurun Rak-Sakyi.

Moving quickly to their next match, they secured a 3-0 victory over newly promoted Oxford United, with goals from Callum O'Hare, Campbell, and Rak Sakyi.

Regis Le Bris' team ended up with their fifth consecutive draw after finishing 0-0 against West Bromwich Albion. The Baggies' defense held strong for the entire match while the Mackems found it difficult to score.

In Sunderland's last two encounters with Sheffield United, they experienced defeats, losing both matches by a score of 2-1 since returning to the Championship.

Sunderland is still missing some important players, including Romaine Mundle, who is dealing with a hamstring injury, and Alan Browne, who has a broken bone in his leg. Both are expected to be sidelined for about six to eight weeks.

Le Bris is expected to select a lineup similar to the one he used in Tuesday's match against the Baggies, especially with Trai Hume, Patrick Roberts, and Jobe Bellingham recently returning from their suspensions.

Sheffield United is expected to put forth a similar team on Friday as they did on Tuesday night. Defender Anel Ahmedhodzic is still serving his suspension, while midfielder Oliver Arblaster is dealing with an injury. Additionally, forwards Kieffer Moore and Rhian Brewster are also out due to their own injury concerns.

The Blades are benefiting from the talents of Rak-Sakyi, a standout player on loan from Crystal Palace in the Premier League. So far, he has scored four goals and provided two assists in 16 appearances.

Another standout player is star midfielder Gus Hamer, who has been a standout performer for the Blades in their quest for promotion. The 27-year-old has accumulated an impressive record of four goals and four assists over 16 matches.