Chris Wilder could have one final surprise lined up for Sheffield United fans ahead of play-off clash vs Sunderland

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Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder could have one selection surprise in place, with one in-form star giving him a selection headache.

Saturday afternoon will see Sheffield United pitted against Sunderland as Wembley awaits the 2024/25 Championship play-off final.

Sheffield United have preceded the tie with a comprehensive and convincing victory over Bristol City across two legs. A 6-0 win over the two legs saw Chris Wilder’s side show their ruthless edge, setting them up perfectly for the final.

Across both games, Sheffield United had several goal scorers, including those coming off the bench, making a significant difference. One player notably bagged in both legs, giving Wilder a selection headache that he may succumb to for the final against Sunderland.

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Chris Wilder could make surprise selection choice by utilising Sheffield United star Callum O’Hare 

Sheffield United’s two wins against the Robins were both wrapped up by brilliant goals courtesy of Callum O’Hare. The former Coventry City star came off the bench in both games, but asserted his dominance brilliantly with a goal in each.

Blades man O’Hare has played an integral part this season, having started 38 times in the Championship regular season. However, he has since played a more prominent role coming off the bench in the play-offs so far.

The fact is that Sydie Peck, Vini Souza and Gus Hamer are near-undroppable, and whilst O’Hare’s spot in the side deserves to be reinstated, Wilder will need to make the bold call of dropping either of his impeccable midfield trio.

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Callum O’Hare could significantly help win key midfield battle vs Sunderland

On Saturday, the midfield battle will significantly dictate the way the game goes. Sunderland have a significant threat in the centre of the park, playing the likes of Jobe Bellingham, Chris Rigg and potentially Enzo Le Fee, who Le Bris may use centrally or the left flank.

Such a midfield set-up could see Wilder deploy O’Hare to fight fire with fire, something that could help the Blades ensure that they can bombard the Sunderland defence.

Getting on the front foot will be crucial in the tie, and O’Hare could be pivotal to make sure that Sheffield United do that from the start. We have seen that Sunderland are likely to sit back in the tie, that must surely give Wilder licence to utilise an attacking side that will put them under pressure.