Sheffield United vs AFC Bournemouth - Premier League Preview and Odds

Published on: 09/02/2020

Sheffield United vs AFC Bournemouth - Premier League Preview and Odds

February 09, 2020 14:00pm - Bramall Lane (Sheffield)

Premier League

Few would have predicted at the start of the season that this fixture would kick off with Sheffield United in contention for a Champions League spot and AFC Bournemouth battling relegation.

The Blades have defied all expectations by maintaining their strong form across two-thirds of the campaign. With the target of survival all-but achieved, they can now set their sights on Europe. Chris Wilder`s men are just five points adrift of fourth-ranked Chelsea and just a point behind fifth-ranked Tottenham Hotspur. However, they will be aware of a rejuvenated Everton breathing down their shoulders. It is a welcome dilemma for the Yorkshire club who have refused to follow the scri pt at every turn this season.

Last time out, they grabbed all three points away to Crystal Palace thanks to an own goal from Vincente Guaita. Prior to that, they were unlucky to lose 1-0 at home to Manchester City. That was one of just two defeats in their last eight home games, the other came at the hands of Newcastle United (0-2).

Meanwhile, AFC Bournemouth`s hopes of pushing on this season have not materialised and they now face the real prospect of being relegated. The Cherries won their last two home matches to ease the pressure but prior to that, they recorded just one win in 12 matches, winning one and drawing the other.

Away from home they have won just one of their last nine and failed to score in four of their last five. Eddie Howes men are just two points above the drop zone and will hope to continue their revival and make it three wins in a row.

When the two teams met at the Vitality Stadium back in August the spoils were shared in a 1-1 draw. That was their first meeting since they were in League One back in 2013.

Predicted line-ups:

Sheffield United: Henderson Basham, Egan, O`Connell Baldock, Berge, Norwood, Fleck, Stevens McBurnie, Sharp

Bournemouth: Ramsdale Smith, Francis, Ake, Rico Gosling, Billing, L.Cook H.Wilson, C.Wilson, Fraser

Recent Form (League)

Sheffield United: WLDWL

AFC Bournemouth: WWLLL

Betting odds and tips

Both sides have some momentum on their side but Sheffield United are playing free from pressure and can be a little more adventurous heading into the final third of the season. Given the playing styles of both teams, it should be an entertaining game but both sides have struggled for goals this term.

Fortunately for the Blades, they have the second-best defence in the league and that could be the difference between the two teams. They look good value for the win at 4/5.

You can back the Home Win at 4/5.

By Neil Morris