Middlesbrough boss Kim Hellberg gives Sheffield United verdict ahead of crunch Championship clash
Sheffield United will be hoping to stop Middlesbrough from going top of the Championship on Monday night.
Middlesbrough head coach Kim Hellberg is anticipating a stern test when his side faces Sheffield United at Bramall Lane tonight, admitting he believes the Blades could still secure a play-off spot.
Following Saturday’s Championship action, United know a victory this evening will reduce the gap on sixth-placed Wrexham to just five points.
However, they must overcome a Middlesbrough side that has the opportunity to climb to the Championship summit with three points. Hellberg’s side have been in great form in recent weeks, winning each of their last five league games.
Although 14 places currently separate Middlesbrough and the Blades in the standings, United’s recent home form suggests it could be a close battle. Chris Wilder’s troops are unbeaten in their last eight league games at Bramall Lane, winning six and scoring 20 goals.
With the play-offs still a realistic ambition for the Blades, Middlesbrough chief Hellberg is expecting a tough test under the Bramall Lane lights, comparing United’s progress with that of Norwich City, who are also continuing to overcome a poor start to the campaign.
Hellberg backs Blades to maintain play-off push
“They started with six losses in a row or something like that, and that, of course, gets you to a very bad start,” Hellberg told the media.
“Since then they’ve been quite good, and especially in the later stage of the season, so it’s a very good team that, again, I think them and Norwich are a little bit similar in the way that if we start the season today, I think both of them will be competing for the top six.
“And maybe they still are. They may still will be with a good last 16 games. They still have a little bit of a chance, so it’s a good team, top quality players in all the positions and quite a deep squad.
“So yes, as always, [they have] a great chance.”