Gathering momentum early makes Sheffield United a dangerous proposition in the race for promotion in the Championship | OneFootball

After a challenging season in the 2023/24 Premier League term, where they found themselves struggling against more established sides, Sheffield United suffered relegation back to the Championship and forced the club to recalibrate the entire football club over the summer. And the primary focus this season is an immediate return to the top flight.

The Blades, back under the guidance of Chris Wilder and Alan Knill, have worked tirelessly during the off-season to bolster their squad and fine-tune their tactics. Despite the setback of relegation, there is an air of optimism around Bramall Lane after a solid transfer window and a good start to the new campaign.

One of the key factors for United this season will be how well they manage the expectations of being one of the favourites for promotion. The Championship is littered with former Premier League sides, all with similar ambitions, and the pressure to perform can often weigh heavily on teams. However, the Blades have built a strong team and added plenty of exciting young talent to help push them over the line at the first time of asking.

Wilder is no stranger to the pressures of the Championship. His experience and understanding of the league could prove to be the difference between a successful season and one that ends in disappointment.

PRESTON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 09: Sheffield United players celebrate following the Sky Bet Championship match between Preston North End FC and Sheffield United FC at Deepdale.

The Blades are one of the favourites to win promotion

As one of the favourites for promotion, Sheffield United’s odds will be closely monitored by neutrals and betting enthusiasts who recognise the potential for the Blades to return to the top tier.

In the pre-season Premier League betting last campaign, the Blades were 67/100 to get relegated. Now, after a solid first month back in the second tier they are just 10/3 to bounce straight back up.

Can Sheffield United continue their form after the international break?

After the international break Sheffield United have some favourable games on paper: after a trip to Hull City they host Derby County before travelling to Portsmouth, and then they face Swansea City at Bramall Lane. These run of games provide the Blades a strong chance of extending their current four-match unbeaten run in the Championship.

Gathering momentum and form in these fixtures across September and early October would be ideal because they travel to Elland Road in the following game to face Leeds United in what is always a high-stakes game, particularly when both are tussling for the top six.