Sheffield United star under the microscope ahead of FA Cup clash with Chelsea

Paul Heckingbottom, who was placed in caretaker charge when manager Chris Wilder parted company with United before the 5-0 loss in the east Midlands, is expected to provide an update on McGoldrick’s progress when he faces the media later today.

A former Republic of Ireland international, McGoldrick has been a rare success story for United this term - scoring seven goals in 30 appearances during their slide to the bottom of the table. One of those efforts came during United’s last visit to Stamford Bridge, when they were beaten 4-1 despite taking an early lead courtesy of McGoldrick’s clever finish.

Heckingbottom, who will be without Jack O’Connell and John Egan in west London, could unveil a change of system as he attempts to mastermind Chelsea’s first defeat since appointing Thomas Tuchel as their new head coach in January.

Although his room for manoeuvre is limited due to a number of fitness issues elsewhere in United’s squad, Heckingbottom hopes Norway international Sander Berge could soon be declared available for selection after missing the past three months with a hamstring complaint.

The Star understands Berge suffered a minor set-back in his battle for fitness before United’s recent trip to Fulham. But, intriguingly, he has been called-up by his country for their forthcoming matches against Gibraltar, Turkey and Montenegro.

United’s trip to the capital is also expected to mark Jason Tindall’s first appearance on the touchline after joining Heckingbottom’s backroom staff - initially on a temporary basis - following Wilder’ exit on Saturday. Tindall watched the loss to City from the stands, but has spent the week working with their first team squad at the Steelphalt Academy, alongside Wilder’s former assistant Alan Knill and Matt Prestridge.

Tindall spent a brief spell as AFC Bournemouth’s manager, following a long period as Eddie Howe’s number two, before arriving at United and is known to be a close friend of chief executive Steve Bettis.

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