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 ...
17. Anel Ahmedhodzic
One of the best players at Bramall Lane this season, the Bosnia and Herzegovina international appears destined to forge a long career in the Premier League. If he can’t play, with his partner due to give birth, it would leave United with a huge headache given there midfield issues. Photo: Andrew Yates
18. John Egan
Dependable and one of the best, if not the best, United players during Tuesday night’s game against Bristol City, which has left them on the brink of automatic promotion from the Championship. A certain and obvious starter. Photo: Simon Bellis
19. Jack Robinson
It’s fair to say there were a few question marks about the centre-half when he first arrived at United. Those have long since been removed. His combative streak could prove invaluable against City’s attack. Photo: Andrew Yates
20. Max Lowe
Now showing why Paul Heckingbottom’s predecessor Chris Wilder brought him to Bramall Lane from Derby County. Has good athleticism, which means he should be able to quickly cover any gaps City carve in United’s defence. Photo: Andrew Yates