Chris Sutton and Micah Richards deliver ominous relegation warning to struggling Sheffield United

The Blades have made an underwhelming start to their sophomore campaign back in the top flight, and are currently rooted to the foot of the table after eight matches.

Chris Wilder’s men have taken just one point from their opening run of fixtures, and they have lost more games than any other side up to this point.

To make matters worse, United’s goal difference of -10 is second only to West Brom as the poorest in the division.

It’s been a humbling crash for a side that finished ninth last term, just five points short of a Europa League spot, but both Sutton and Richards believe that things could still get a whole lot worse for the Bramall Lane side.

Speaking to the Daily Mail, the former said: “It doesn't look good for Fulham and West Brom, but then it doesn't look good for Burnley and Sheffield United either. Three of those four seem set to drop down.

“Confidence is a huge factor. Burnley have been well-drilled under Sean Dyche. Likewise, Chris Wilder's team. We'd never deem them disorganised in the past.

“But the way their seasons have started, the confidence is seeping out and that leaves them in trouble.”

Richards added: “The Fulham-West Brom game last week felt like a relegation decider in the sixth week of the season! They both have their work cut out but it is not a fight I can see them winning.

“Joining them? It will be one of Burnley, Sheffield United and Brighton.”