Sheffield United face a tough task in retaining their current second spot in the Championship when they take on West Bromwich Albion this weekend.

Chris Wilder’s men are one point ahead of their hosts on Saturday evening, and above Leeds on goal difference as they sit as league leaders Norwich’s closest challengers to the top spot.

But this weekend will pose a threat that the Baggies’ last two opponents have been lucky enough to avoid.

After being banned for two games for successfully deceiving a matchday official in the 2-2 draw with Nottingham Forest – Dwight Gayle returns.

And his undoubted inclusion in Darren Moore’s side, the Sheffield United supporters must be anticipating a busy night for their defenders this weekend.

Gayle is the Baggies’ top scorer and will, without doubt, be a nuisance for each of the three centre-halves that Wilder uses to try and nullify the threat Gayle will pose.

They need to be wary that their impressive record at the back will not crumble as it did at Aston Villa two weeks ago, but a performance akin to the win over Middlesbrough will be on show.

The Newcastle loanee has 16 goals in the Championship and has eight goals in his last nine matches – making him in form despite his controversial suspension.

United’s fans know that if they keep the striker quiet that will lower the chances of their hosts scoring.

West Brom have been able to cope without the help of Gayle with the likes of Jacob Murphy, Jay Rodriguez and Ha Robson-Kanu able to step in during his absence.

But their main man is back and ready to dial up in front of goal – Blades fans need to be wary.

They also, however, they should be confident that their backline has what it takes to stand up to the challenge or Gayle.

Sheffield United are second after all – and they are not there on merit, they have earned the right to be challenging at the top of the table.

Blades supporters will be confident, and that is certainly understandable, despite there being a small bit of trepidation at the attributes Gayle possesses could well hurt their automatic promotion hopes this weekend.