Lawro backs Blades

Last updated : 02 May 2009 By Bladesmadeditor
Players celebrate
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The Blades are of course set to entertain Palace, whilst Birmingham and Reading will be scrapping it out for the result they need. Birmingham are in the driving seat when looking at the league standings, but Lawro says United's experience and momentum will get them up, up and away to the Premier League.

He said: "Kevin Blackwell has done a terrific job, taking Sheffield United to the brink of the Premier League in just under 15 months. The Blades would be my choice to get automatic promotion on the final day of the Championship season tomorrow (Sunday).

"We all know that Neil Warnock is a Sheffield United fan and that it is his Crystal Palace team which stand between them and promotion at Selhurst Park. But Warnock is nothing if not a thorough professional, he won't stand aside and let United win but they should have a bit too much for Palace.

"Warnock has never hidden the fact that he's a Blades fan but you can forget conspiracy theories tomorrow. United will have a big following and they should overcome Palace. And, quite frankly, I just can't see Birmingham after their recent wobbles winning at Reading which leaves United in the box seat."

Lawro continued: "In fact, I fancy Sheffield United to have the experience, strength and quality to stay up in the Premier League. With the Carlos Tevez compensation, they will also have money to spend.

"They have good players in the squad. Kyle Naughton looks a decent prospect and, most important of all, they are hard to beat. Bramall Lane is a tough, intimidating place to go with their fans behind them.

"They have a determined, single-minded manager with experience, having worked with the likes of Warnock and in a difficult situation at Leeds. That can only make you stronger as a manager and as a character, and that's why Sheffield United can keep their nerve this weekend."