Sky Sports pundit makes score prediction for Sheffield United's big midweek clash against Newcastle United

It will be a return to Bramall Lane for Steve Bruce, who started his managerial career with Sheffield United in 1998.

A full 21 years later, Bruce is preparing to take Newcastle United to face a Blades team in fantastic form, with the home faithful pinching themselves at their stunning start to Premier League life.

Chris Wilder’s side are favourites to beat Newcastle.

Sky Sports pundit Charlie Nicholas is full of praise for the Blades, but doesn’t quite back them to beat Newcastle.

In his predictions column, he said: “Sheffield United are going great. They have 18 points and people are very surprised by the start they've made this season. They only have four wins in 14 games but have only lost three too. They do not lose away from home and they have picked up slightly at home.

“Newcastle are a similar sort of side. They are very impressive away from home but lack a bit of the cutting edge. Steve Bruce has brought the passion back, and they are nicking points here and there. I think the Newcastle fans are accepting what Bruce can do with a fairly average bunch. He is doing a much better job than what Rafael Benitez did.

“Bruce is clever, he is going back to Sheffield where he will get plenty of abuse but he will have his players pumped up. If their shape is good, the counter attack will be a strong weapon for them.

“CHARLIE PREDICTS: 1-1”