HILLSBOROUGH COUNTDOWN: If Bamford scores we're on the pitch

Football's third international interruption of the season did Sheffield United no favours. Just as they were finally building a more positive approach, even if results didn't reflect it, boss Chris Wilder has had two weeks to ponder the first derby showdown of the season at Hillsborough. Surprise incomer on a short-term contract, former Leeds United striker Patrick Bamford, may be given a dramatic chance to go from zero to hero if he is thrown into the Steel City cauldron. Bamford and Wilder have form, with the Blades boss once labelling the 32-year-old "a muppet from Leeds". Bamford continued the spat at the end of last season, leading an abusive chant aimed at his now boss following Leeds' promotion to the Premier League.

SUMMARY:

• The transformation of new short-term signing Patrick Bamford from an outsider to a potential Sheffield United hero could become reality if he gets a fairytale chance in this Sunday's derby showdown at Hillsborough.
• The reliance on Callum O'Hare as the leading scorer and assist provider underscores the team's dependency on individual brilliance amid collective struggles.
• The evolving tactical approach of manager Chris Wilder is producing a more cohesive unit.

Links referenced in this episode:

• viewfromthejohnstreet.com