Nottingham Forest go up against Sheffield United this weekend at the City Ground, with Aitor Karanka’s side looking to break into the Championship’s top-six.  

A run of encouraging results, including a 1-1 draw with Leeds United last weekend, has moved the Reds to the brink of the play-offs, with Karanka’s side entering this weekend’s round of fixtures within two points of Derby County.

That 1-1 draw with Leeds was controversial, but it was another encouraging step in the right direction for Karanka’s men.

However, in that draw at Elland Road, Jack Colback picked up his fifth caution of the season, with the Nottingham Post confirming that the 29-year-old will be absent against the Blades this Saturday due to suspension.

Forest’s squad is littered with talent, but Karanka has a selection headache as he chooses who partners Adlene Guedioura in midfield, whilst who features ahead of them in the 4-2-3-1 will also be giving Karanka sleepless nights.

Here at FLW, we identify the midfield unit we are expecting…

Guedioura is really important to how Forest player, with their better performances coming with him in midfield.

Yacob seems to be in Karanka’s thoughts for this one, and with Colback absent, it’s the perfect time for the former West Brom man to come into the starting line-up.

Lolley is a real threat for Forest and should switch to the right against Sheffield United.

The Blades’ system will mean there is plenty of space out wide.

Carvalho isn’t having the impact many thought he would in England, but he has the potential to be very good in this game.

There will be space between the lines against the Blades.

Karanka has more attacking options he could turn to, but Osborn is reliable and will be important against one of the division’s better sides.

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