Both Aston Villa and Sheffield United have suffered indifferent form over recent weeks, with pressure on the Sky Bet Championship’s play-off rivals heading into this weekend’s clash between the two at Villa Park.

Villa currently sit fifth in the Championship table, but Steve Bruce’s side enter Saturday’s contest without a victory in their last three fixtures, having picked up just two points from a possible nine.

Back-to-back draws against Leeds United and Millwall halted an excellent winning run, before Villa came unstuck against play-off rivals Derby County last weekend at the Pride Park Stadium, with the Villans suffering a 2-0 defeat at the hands of the Rams.

Villa’s official Twitter account (@AVFCOfficial) has revealed the exceptional record manager Steve Bruce has in his last six meetings with Sheffield United, with the 56-year-old managing to pick up six victories, leaving himself with a 100% record against the Blades.

Chris Wilder will be looking to halt Bruce’s magnificent record against the Blades this weekend, whilst also helping his side return to winning ways, after a miserable slump in form has left his side looking over their shoulders.

Sheffield United have lost four of their last five, which has dashed their automatic promotion hopes.

The Verdict

Bruce will be hoping he can continue his fine record against Sheffield United this weekend, and there is no better time for Villa to face the Blades, who are really struggling in the Championship.

However, Bruce held a similar record against Derby heading into last weekend’s fixtures, which will leave the club’s supporters wary of getting excited about their manager’s record against Sheffield United.

Saturday’s contest promises to be an exciting one.

Aston Villa fans… Let us know your thoughts!