The changes Sheffield United are plotting in order to get their season on a winning track

Sheffield United are planning a series of changes when they face Burnley in the second round of the EFL Cup, with Oliver Burke and Ethan Ampadu among those likely to make their debuts for Chris Wilder’s side.
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Wes Foderingham, Max Lowe and Jayden Bogle could also feature during Thursday’s match at Turf Moor, as United plan to combine their obligations to the tournament with preparations for Monday’s Premier League fixture against Aston Villa.

Speaking ahead of the visit to Lancashire, Wilder has already confirmed Burke - the Scotland centre-forward - will feature as his team attempts to set up a meeting with either Millwall or Cheltenham Town. Ampadu is almost certain to start as United look to properly acquaint him with their 3-5-2 formation following a loan move from Chelsea, with Wilder contemplating whether to deploy the Wales youngster in defence or midfield.

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“Oli will be involved, this is going to be when he really starts with us,” Wilder said. “There’ll be a few coming in, as you would expect, but make no mistake we want to go through.”

Chris Wilder is set to change Sheffield United's starting eleven at Burnley: Darren Staples/SportimageChris Wilder is set to change Sheffield United's starting eleven at Burnley: Darren Staples/Sportimage
Chris Wilder is set to change Sheffield United's starting eleven at Burnley: Darren Staples/Sportimage

Foderingham, the former Rangers goalkeeper, could be thrust into action ahead of Aaron Ramsdale - the only one of United’s six summer signings to take part in Monday’s PL defeat by Wolves - a result which saw them lose their opening match of a new campaign for the third time since 2016, with Wilder later leading them to the League One title during his debut season at the helm. Although the United manager did not hold Ramsdale responsible for the two goals his team conceded inside the opening six minutes, he could choose to select Foderingham for the knockout competitions in order to ensure the 29-year-old remains physically fit and psychologically sharp.

Bogle and Lowe, purchased to provide cover and competition for wing-backs Enda Stevens and George Baldock, have spent the past fortnight learning the complexities of United’s system, which requires them to provide service for attackers such as Burke and Oli McBurnie as well as thwarting opposition forwards.

Youngster Regan Slater could also take part after being awarded a squad number, although United would still prefer him to join an EFL team on loan before the transfer window closes next month in order to gain more senior experience.

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Chris Holt, Football Editor