It’s time for the talking to stop as Sheffield Wednesday and Sheffield United prepare to do battle once again.
It’s been five long years since the two teams last met and all eyes will be on Bramall Lane this weekend.
It’s the Blades who are the form team going into the game, although both outfits did claim big momentum-building wins in midweek.
Danny Rohl bemoaned the atmosphere at Hillsborough against Norwich and it will be hoped that the away end is rocking at Bramall Lane on Sunday.
Dominic Iorfa is one player who has sampled this game previously and he will be leaned on for support in the dressing room this weekend.
The Wednesday squad is one that boasts a wealth of experience and the hope will be that it can prove pivotal this weekend.
Chris Basham wary of one Sheffield Wednesday star this weekend
The former Blades defender was forced to retire after suffering an injury last season and he proved a great servant for United.
However, he does remain in contact with a Wednesday star and it’s captain fantastic Barry Bannan.
Ahead of the game, he spoke to Football Heaven about his relationship – and his huge admiration – for the Owls stalwart.
He told Football Heaven: “Baz is a quality player, we knew how dangerous he could be in setting things up. Last 12 years now he’s been at Sheffield Wednesday. He’s been unbelievable for them.
“He’s an alright friend. Not on derby day though! Nah, he’s a good mate.”
Wednesday must set record straight vs Sheffield United
This could prove a real slog on Sunday with United currently in brilliant form.
The Blades have been beaten this season but only twice and currently sit in second place after a midweek defeat for Leeds.
If Sunderland lose on Saturday, United will know that victory in the derby could see them go top spot and that is a big incentive.
Rohl isn’t one for reading scripts, however, and although it’s cliched, the form book really does go out of the window for this one.
| Venue | Score | Wednesday Scorers |
| Hillsborough | D 0-0 | N/A |
| Bramall Lane | D 0-0 | N/A |
| Bramall Lane | D 0-0 | N/A |
| Hillsborough | L 4-2 | Gary Hooper, Lucas Joao |
| Hillsborough | W 1-0 | Chris O’Grady |
Intriguingly, the last three games have finished in goalless draws.
That perhaps doesn’t build hope for much of a goal fest on Sunday but a tight affair could suit the Owls.
With United scoring goals for fun, remaining tight defensively will be the order of the day.
Basham is right to rave about Bannan and his leadership qualities will be massive in this fixture.
Wednesday have had some strange results this season already and hopefully, the form book can be upset this weekend at Bramall Lane.