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It’s that time of year once again, the Championship is nearly back and for Sheffield United it’s another opportunity at promotion to the Premier League.
Ruben Selles will be looking to make an impact as the new head coach of the Blades, but he has huge boots to fill after supporters fumed at the decision to part ways with Chris Wilder earlier this summer.
Nevertheless, OPTA have predicted Selles’ side to win the title after they were beaten in the play-off final thanks to a 95th minute winner from Sunderland’s Tommy Watson at Wembley.
Sheffield United faced Bristol City in the semi-finals of the play-offs in 2024/25, and they start their season against the Robins this time round. But their new manager will be concerned about one EFL appointment.
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Ruben Selles has a history with the referee as Sheffield United face Bristol City
It’s going to be a feisty game at Bramall Lane on Saturday in the 5:30pm kick off, and referee Josh Smith will be keen to take control of the game from the off.
However, he does have a little bit of history with Sheffield United boss Selles and his previous side Hull City, having officiated the Tigers’ 2-1 victory over Oxford United in March at the MKM Stadium.
Despite his former club taking all three points in that clash, there was one defining moment that could have allowed the U’s back into the game in the dying moments as Gustavo Puerta was sent off for simulation.
However, replays clearly showed Ben Nelson bring the midfielder down in the Oxford box but Smith adjudged Puerta to have dived, much to the frustration of Selles who was watching on from the stands as he served a touchline ban.
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The Blades have a mixed record when refereed by Josh Smith
This will be the ninth Sheffield United match that Smith has officiated, having taken charge of the Blades’ games against Norwich City last season.
Their victory over the Canaries at home was the first time that they have won a game while this referee has been in charge since their stunning 4-0 victory over Fulham in May 2022.
Nonetheless, Smith has never dished a red card to the South Yorkshire outfit, although he has booked Blades players 18 times and awarded them just one penalty.
Sheffield United will be hoping to start the campaign as they mean to go on, and with a fresh mindset, this could well be their season.