Sheffield United's Enda Stevens makes an admission about facing Aston Villa

Enda Stevens is expected to start for Sheffield United against his former club Aston Villa: James Wilson/Sportimage

The Republic of Ireland international started his career in England with the visitors, making nine appearances before joining Portsmouth.

Stevens, who arrived at Bramall Lane in May 2017, faced Villa twice last season as United won promotion from the Championship.

With Dean Smith’s side joining them in the Premier League after winning the play-offs, Stevens said: “I’ve come up against them before. I don’t really look at it like that (facing an old team) because all I’m bothered about is getting the points for us, Sheffield United.”

United have prepared for this afternoon’s game in eighth while Villa are 17th. Wilder’s men won the corresponding fixture last term 4-1, before Villa came from 3-0 down to snatch a draw in the return at Villa Park.

“They’re tough to play,” Stevens said. “These are usually exciting games.”