Back-to-back defeats have seen United’s lead over third-placed Middlesbrough slashed to four points, although United do have a better goal difference and also a game in hand.
But Saturday’s clash against Slaven Bilic’s side has certainly gained extra importance, with United reporting a clean bill of health ahead of the clash. So we tasked our man to step into Paul Heckingbottom's shoes and select the side he would send out to face Watford – here’s what he came up with...
5. Ciaran Clark
After stepping up his recovery with the U21s in midweek I’d be tempted to bring Clark back into the first-team fold. His experience and nous could prove vital for the Blades for the promotion run-in Photo: Simon Bellis
6. Max Lowe
I was tempted to suggest Jack Robinson as a left wing-back, to keep his competitiveness on the pitch for United but Lowe probably just about edges it going forward, even if he has struggled defensively in recent games Photo: Paul Terry
7. Ollie Norwood
Was effectively targeted by Boro and Millwall in recent weeks but the return of Doyle alongside him should hopefully help him return to his dominant best in midfield Photo: Simon Bellis
8. Tommy Doyle
Fresh from his free-kick strike at Millwall, and keen to make up for lost time after his various injury absences this season, Doyle gives United energy in midfield and is looking to add more of a goal threat too Photo: Simon Bellis