The Blades saw their lead over third-placed Boro cut to seven points in midweek but still have a better goal difference and a game in hand over Michael Carrick’s men.
Ahead of the game United have some injury concerns, with Billy Sharp ruled out with an ankle issue. So we tasked our man to step into Heckingbottom’s shoes and select the side he would send out at The Den. Here’s what he came up with ...
5. John Egan
Speaks for itself – a rock at the back who goes under the radar a little due to his own consistently-high standards. Made his 200th appearance in Blades colours in midweek and is looking for his second promotion Photo: Andrew Yates
6. Jack Robinson
Ciaran Clark is back fit but concerns over his lack of match fitness mean Robinson continues on the left of defence in my side Photo: Lexy Ilsley
7. Max Lowe
A beneficiary of his teammates’ misfortune with both Enda Stevens and Rhys Norrington-Davies injured, Lowe gets the nod almost by default but has also impressed this season - although he will have to be better than he was against Boro on Wednesday night Photo: George Wood
8. Ollie Norwood
One of the first names on the teamsheet, offering so much to United with and without the ball Photo: Andrew Yates