Sheffield vs Tottenham

The Premier League's final weekend is upon us, and Tottenham Hotspur travel to Bramall Lane to face Sheffield United, needing just a point to secure a fifth-place finish and a spot in the Europa League. This season has been a rollercoaster for Spurs under new manager Ange Postecoglou, and their last test comes against a relegated Sheffield United side looking for some solace before dropping to the Championship.

Match Preview

Sheffield United

Sheffield United’s campaign has been a difficult one, epitomized by their defensive struggles. Their 1-0 loss to Everton marked their 101st goal conceded this season, setting an unwanted record. Despite this, the Blades have a glimmer of hope as they approach the final match of the season. Historically, they have won their final league game in each of the last three seasons.

Manager Chris Wilder is already preparing for next season’s Championship campaign, aiming to rebuild and push for promotion. Their recent form has been poor, with six consecutive losses and their last victory dating back to February 10 against Luton Town. The challenge on Sunday is substantial, but a win against a "fragile" Tottenham, as Wilder described, would be a morale booster.

Tottenham Hotspur

Tottenham’s season has been marked by inconsistency. Ange Postecoglou’s tenure started with the ambition of solidifying Spurs as a top-four contender. However, their Champions League hopes were dashed after a 2-0 defeat to Manchester City, which left Postecoglou visibly frustrated. The manager criticized the team's fragility and inconsistency, echoing the sentiments of previous managers who struggled with similar issues.

Despite the disappointment, Spurs are on the brink of securing Europa League football. A win or draw would cement their fifth-place finish. However, their away form has been a cause for concern, with only two wins in their last twelve road games and no victories in their last five. This inconsistent form was highlighted by their last visit to Bramall Lane, which ended in a 1-0 FA Cup loss, although they did manage a comeback win against Sheffield United earlier this season, thanks to Richarlison’s late heroics.

Team News

Sheffield United

Sheffield United's defensive woes will see some relief as Mason Holgate and Anel Ahmedhodzic return to the lineup. However, they still have several injury concerns. Chris Basham (ankle), Oli McBurnie (thigh), Rhys Norrington-Davies (thigh), and Max Lowe (ankle) remain sidelined. There are also doubts over the fitness of George Baldock, Daniel Jebbison, Tom Davies, and Ben Osborn.

Despite these setbacks, Wilder is expected to field a competitive side, with Wes Foderingham in goal, and a backline bolstered by the returnees. The midfield will likely feature Oliver Arblaster, who is recovering from a calf issue, and Andre Brooks, who should be fit after an illness. The attack will be led by Ben Brereton Diaz and Cameron Archer, aiming to exploit Tottenham's defensive vulnerabilities.

Sheffield United possible starting lineup: Foderingham; Ahmedhodzic, Robinson, Trusty; Bogle, Souza, Hamer, Arblaster, Brooks; Brereton Diaz, Archer

Tottenham Hotspur

Spurs continue to be plagued by injuries, with Richarlison (calf), Yves Bissouma (knee), Manor Solomon (knee), Fraser Forster (foot), Destiny Udogie (thigh), Ryan Sessegnon (hamstring), Ben Davies (calf), and Timo Werner (thigh) all out. Giovani Lo Celso is also a doubt after picking up a knee injury against Manchester City.

Rodrigo Bentancur's frustration was evident when he was substituted midweek, suggesting possible changes in the lineup. Dejan Kulusevski could replace him, while Micky van de Ven is expected to continue as an emergency left-back due to the absence of Davies and Udogie. James Maddison will be crucial in midfield, with Son Heung-min leading the attack, supported by Brennan Johnson and Kulusevski.

Tottenham Hotspur possible starting lineup: Vicario; Porro, Romero, Dragusin, Van de Ven; Sarr, Hojbjerg; Kulusevski, Maddison, Johnson; Son

Prediction

Given Tottenham’s inconsistent form and Sheffield United's dismal season, predicting the outcome is challenging. However, the stakes for Spurs are high, and with Europa League qualification on the line, they are likely to put forth a strong effort.

Sheffield United will aim to end their Premier League tenure on a positive note, and their record of winning final league games in recent years gives them a psychological edge. However, their defensive frailties and injury concerns may prove too significant to overcome against a motivated Spurs side.

Prediction: Sheffield United 1-2 Tottenham Hotspur

Conclusion

As the Premier League season concludes, Tottenham Hotspur have a clear objective: secure at least a point to guarantee Europa League football next season. Sheffield United, while already relegated, will seek to give their fans something to cheer about one last time. It promises to be an intriguing encounter with both teams having something to prove.