With Tommy Doyle and James McAtee ineligible to face their parent club in the final-four clash, United have been denied the services of two of their most influential players in recent weeks – to add to the already unenviable task of facing Pep Guardiola’s Premier League superstars.
With that in mind, we tasked our Blades writers James Shield and Danny Hall to pick the side they would send out to face City in a bid to reach the club’s first FA Cup final since 1936. Here's what they came up with ...
13. Daniel Jebbison
Something of a surprise inclusion, perhaps, but to have any chance here I think United have to stretch City's backline and Jebbison's pace can do just that. It's a huge opportunity for the teenager but what better stage to go and prove how good you could be? No defenders, as good as they are, likes to face pace and United don't have a great deal of that elsewhere so Jebbison running in behind to through-balls from Berge and Norwood could be a profitable avenue for them. Alternatively I'd have no issues whatsoever if Chris Basham was named in midfield and Ndiaye up top with McBurnie! Photo: Simon Bellis
14. James Shield's side to face City
Our Sheffield United writers have been tasked with picking their side for Wembley this weekend - here are James' selections Photo: Marisa Cashill
15. Wes Foderingham
Adam Davies is a more than able deputy and would be a number one choice elsewhere. But Foderingham, now back from suspension, is United’s first pick and against the best team in the world you need your frontline goalkeeper. Photo: Simon Bellis
16. George Baldock
Can get forward, as he has shown on countless occasions so far this season. But defending remains his strength and United will have lots of that to do. He’s also more experienced than the alternative options. Photo: Simon Bellis