This is the biggest selection dilemma Sheffield United face ahead of their FA Cup tie at Millwall

Perhaps the most difficult choice facing Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder at Millwall is not who leads his attack or anchors the midfield but which of Dean Henderson’s two understudies keeps goal.
Michael Verrips (left) and his fellow Sheffield United goalkeeper Simon Moore: Simon Bellis/SportimageMichael Verrips (left) and his fellow Sheffield United goalkeeper Simon Moore: Simon Bellis/Sportimage
Michael Verrips (left) and his fellow Sheffield United goalkeeper Simon Moore: Simon Bellis/Sportimage

With Henderson unlikely to start tomorrow’s FA Cup fourth round tie, Wilder must decide if Michael Verrips is handed the task of deputising for the on-loan 22-year-old, or whether Simon Moore should be parachuted straight back into the side after recovering from injury.

With a groin complaint ruling Moore out of the 2-1 win over AFC Fylde, Verrips made his United debut against the non-league club before suffering a concussion on the stroke of half-time.

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However, after being examined by doctors, the Dutchman resumed training ahead of last weekend’s draw with Arsenal.

Speaking ahead of United’s latest trip to London, Wilder confirmed Moore is also now available for selection.

“Simon is back, we’ve got three goalkeepers to pick from,” Wilder said. “He (Moore) is available for this one.”

Moore, a member of United 2017 League One title winning squad, initially emerged as Henderson’s regular number two; starting November’s 3-3 draw with the youngster’s parent club Manchester United.

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But Verrips, signed from KV Mechelen during the close season, is known to have impressed Wilder after stepping into the breach when the former Brentford goalkeeper became unavailable for selection.

It will be fascinating to see, with Moore approaching the final 12 months of his contract, if the balance of power between him and Verrips has now swung in the Dutchman’s direction. Verrips’ deal lasts until the summer of 2023.

“Dean has been outstanding but he has to be pushed,” Wilder, who is exploring the possibility of renewing Henderson’s loan for another year, said. “It was a huge opportunity for Simon against Manchester United and I thought he did really well. I didn’t blame him for any of their goals.

“Then, Michael played in the cup and also did really well until someone kneed him in the head. That was really unlucky but he’s okay now.”