United cross the city having won their last three Championship outings and boasting one of the most miserly defences in the division.

Hosts Sheffield Wednesday, meanwhile, are unbeaten on home soil in the league this season.

Six places separate the two protagonists in the table but the 122nd chapter in one of English football's most compelling sagas appears delicately poised.

Which is why Edwards predicts that a deal-ball situation rather than a moment of individual brilliance could prove to be the game's defining moment.

Fortunately for boss Kevin Blackwell, whose team hope to avenge January's 2-0 defeat in emphatic fashion, their former striker has identified accomplished set-plays as one of the most potent weapons in a redoubtable attacking armoury.

"These matches are always tight affairs, Edwards, now an expert summariser on local radio, told The Star. "There's usually a very small margin between success and failure.

"That's why I'm delighted to see that United have really improved that area recently.

"Their free-kicks where disappointing at the start of the campaign but it's an area they've obviously worked on and it's starting to bear fruit.

"They're scoring goals from them now.

"One of the interesting aspects of this derby in particular is that the result is extremely difficult to call.

"Wednesday have made a solid start and they've done especially well at their own ground. United are looking strong again now after a little bit of a wobble and they'll be full of confidence too.

"That's why I can see it swinging on one little thing."

Perhaps Blackwell's greatest selection dilemma as he applies the finishing touches to United's tactical masterplan focuses on the heart of the visitors' rearguard.

Should Chris Morgan, club captain and talisman, pass a fitness test on his injured calf before kick-off then it will be tempting to hand him an instant recall. But Ugo Ehiogu, a commanding performer in his teammate's absence, was immaculate against Bristol City earlier this month.

It is possible to make a convincing argument for both to be included but, with Matthew Kilgallon also impressing, one could have to make do with a place on the bench.

"It's a difficult one," Edwards conceded.