This is the third time in four seasons the Blades have been chosen to be the first team to play in the first game in either the Chamopionship or Premiership. They are: Sheffield United vs Leicester City in the 2005/06 season, Sheffield United vs Liverpool in the 2006/07 season and now Birmingham City vs Sheffield United in the brand new 2008/09 campaign.
All of which were 12:45pm kick-offs. The Colchester game last season spoilt the four season in a row triumph as Blackwell's Blades will battle it out with Alex McCleish's Brum.
The game is to be played on Saturday 9th August.