Bristol City manager Lee Johnson says he expects Sheffield United to maintain their current place at the top end of the Championship ahead of the clash between the two sides on Saturday.

The Blades currently sit in third place in the Championship with Johnson's side in sixth, just one point behind Wilder, with Johnson saying he has a lot of admiration for his opponents.

“First and foremost, it’s a club I’ve got a lot of respect for,” Johnson told the Sheffield Star.

“It’s still early days in the season, of course, but United are a side that I would expect to be up there at the end.

"Both clubs did well last season before petering out towards the end, but both have improved their depth and the Championship has got better as a division."

Sheffield United and Bristol City both come into the match off the back of impressive 4-1 victories before the international break.

Chris Wilder's side saw off promotion hopefuls Aston Villa with ease at Bramall Lane, with goals from Billy Sharp, Oliver Norwood, Jack O'Connell and Mark Duffy.

The Robins saw off Blackburn Rovers 4-1 the following day at Ashton Gate, coming from behind thanks to goals from Josh Brownhill, Famara Diedhiou, Marley Watkins and Marlon Pack.

The Verdict 

This should be an absolute cracker and probably the match of the weekend.

Both sides are in great form and both play great football. Neither side has been infallible at the back either so expect goals.

Johnson's praise is high, but he will be looking to get one over Wilder when they go up against each other on Saturday.

Thoughts? Let us know! 

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