The Sheffield United dilemmas facing Paul Heckingbottom ahead of Birmingham City clash | OneFootball

Sheffield United are looking to continue their fine start to the season against Birmingham City this afternoon.

It’s been four wins from four at Bramall Lane for Paul Heckingbottom’s Blades so far this season, with a trip to South Yorkshire proving to be the most daunting in the division; something that’s been the case since Heckingbottom was appointed.

That was backed up with three away wins on the spin in September, leaving Sheffield United top of the pile heading out of the international break.

This afternoon, it’s Birmingham City heading to The Lane, as John Eustace looks to build on back-to-back away wins at Preston North End and West Brom.

With a focus on Sheffield United, we take a look at a couple of dilemmas that Heckingbottom has right now:

Defensive headache

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Anel Ahmedhodzic has made an impressive start to life as a Blade but is currently out of action.

Despite an improved depth in the squad this season, Sheffield United are short in defence heading into this weekend.

Joining Ahmedhodzic out of the side are Enda Stevens, Ciaran Clark and Jack Robinson (Sheffield Star).

The likes of George Baldock, John Egan, Chris Basham and Rhys Norrington-Davies all underline this squad’s depth, whilst Jayden Bogle is also coming back into contention after an injury.

However, given Heckingbottom’s favoured system, that depth is made redundant in a way.

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Billy Sharp’s role

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Billy Sharp is Mr Sheffield United and his importance to Heckingbottom is obvious.

The 36-year-old has managed only 89 minutes of action this season but that’s not stopped Sheffield United motoring on at the top of the division.

The striker is fit again now but there are no guarantees he walks into the side. Oli McBurnie has four goals in five games, whilst Rhian Brewster also started last time out against Preston. Iliman Ndiaye adds a different dimension to the attacking unit, too.

Heckingbottom will always find a place for Sharp in his squad, he’s just got to weigh up how to use him, presumably off the bench for this afternoon.