Sheffield United vs. Burton Albion

Last updated : 09 August 2012 By @blades_mad1889

The two sides last met last season in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy at the Pirelli Stadium; United fielded a scratch side and came away with a 2-1 victory, but were made to play for there victory. The home side took the lead (73 minutes) through Justin Richards before the Blades hit back with replies from midfielder David McAllister (76) and Norwegian striker Erik Tonne (80) - both could play at the Lane tomorrow.

Danny Wilson's Blades progressed further in the competition, beating Rotherham United 2-1 at the Don Valley Stadium but bowed out at home to Bradford City, losing on penalties after a 1-1 draw. The Blades have been handed a 'bye' in the first round of this seasons Johnstone Paint Trophy which is drawn tomorrow.

Blades boss Danny Wilson revealed that eleven players where released this summer in a big shape up after failing to win promotion to the Championship; James Beattie and ex-Manchester City forward Ched Evans, Steve Simonsen, Andy Taylor, Johannes Ertl, Ched Evans, James Beattie, Connor Brown, Jack Adams, Seamus Conneely, Corey Gregory, Marc Warren and Shane Murray all left but Kevin McDonald, Chris Porter and Lee Williamson have all been offered new deals to stay. Meanwhile, United will be without defender Lescinel Jean-Francois who is sidelined for the summer through injury.

The Blades were one of the first sides to play at Rotherham United's new 'New York Stadium' in pre-season and currently hold the unofficial record in highest attendance with over 11,000 in attendance at the Football League's brand new stadia - however, next week when Burton travel to the Millers on the opening day of the new league season they will officially become the first side to play at Rotherham's new permanent home.

Brewers boss Garry Rowett has been busy in the transfer market this summer, he has allowed; James Wren (Tamworth), Greg Pearson (Grimsby Town), Ryan Austin (Kidderminster Harriers), Tony James (Newport County), Danny Blanchett (York City) and Andres Gurrieri (released).

In return the former Birmingham City defender has brought in; Zander Diamond (Oldham Athletic), Lee Bell (Crewe Alexandra), Dean Lyness (Kidderminster Harriers), Damien McCroy (Dagenham & Redbridge) and Marcus Holness (Rochdale), all of which could make their debuts tomorrow.

Blades-Mad Prediction: Sheffield United 1-0 Burton Albion