Sheffield United could be boosted by the return of a very important player when they take on Millwall on Saturday

Jack O'Connell could be on his way back to the Sheffield United line-up. James Wilson/Sportimage

The influential Blades defender has missed the last two games, including Wednesday night’s 1-1 draw with Birmingham City at St Andrew’s.

The 25-year-old came off early in the 3-2 defeat to Bristol City at Bramall Lane at the end of last month.

Chris Wilder takes a broad view of the race for automatic promotion after his team are held to a draw by Birmingham City

Jack O'Connell came off early in Sheffield United's 3-2 defeat to Bristol on March 30: James Wilson/Sportimage

After taking a point at St Andrews, Wilder confirmed O'Connell had trained "at full tilt" before United set-off for the Midlands and, despite being omitted from the team sheet, is in contention to face Neil Harris' men.

Birmingham City 1-1 Sheffield United: Chris Wilder’s promotion-chasing side strike first but are held at St Andrews

And if it’s not against Millwall, then the home game against Nottingham Forest the following Friday should see O’Connell named in the starting XI.

"It could be then or it could be Forest," he said. "But, looking at him now, when Jack does come back he'll be raring to go. He's not far away."

Player ratings from Blades' 1-1 draw with Birmingham City at St Andrew's as Leeds United hang on to second place in Championship