Sheffield United have enjoyed an exceptional start to the Sky Bet Championship season, with Chris Wilder’s side using the momentum they gained from the 2016/17 campaign to take the second-tier by storm.  

The Blades currently sit third in the Championship table after seven fixtures, and Wilder’s side will be heading into this weekend’s clash with Norwich City looking to strengthen their hold on a place in the top-six.

Saturday’s opponents have had a disappointing start to the season compared to Wilder’s men, but the Blades will be aware of the threat the Canaries post, particularly with Nelson Oliveira in contention.

Oliveira has scored four Championship goals already this season for Daniel Farke’s side, and here at FLW, we believe that Wilder could move away from his favoured 3-5-2 formation to combat the Portuguese striker’s threat.

Switching to a more conservative 4-1-4-1 formation could benefit the Blades, with added bodies in key areas able to crowd out the influential Oliveira.

Jamal Blackman has done an exceptional job in goal for the Blades this season, and he will be expected to continue, but instead of a three man defence shielding him, we have opted for a flat four, including Kieron Freeman at right-back, Daniel Lafferty at left-back and a central defensive pairing of the impressive Jack O’Connell and Jake Wright.

Ahead of O’Connell and Wright, we have opted for Chris Basham in the holding midfield role, with his job to pick up Oliveira if he comes short.

John Fleck and Paul Coutts are positioned slightly ahead of Basham, with one of the duo given the licence to support the lone striker – who undoubtedly has to be Billy Sharp.

Mark Duffy will take up a role on the right side of midfield, whilst Enda Stevens, who is predominantly a left-back, will play on the left side, giving this 4-1-4-1 formation balance and more defensive cover against a talented Norwich side.

Sheffield United fans… What do you make of this XI? Let us know your thoughts!