Why Mark Lawrenson's backed Sheffield United to BEAT West Brom in midweek clash

Sheffield United will head in to this evening's Premier League clash against West Bromwich Albion full of encouragement, after last week's win over Manchester United and a spirited performance in a narrow loss to Manchester City.

Writing his midweek predictions for BBC Sport, pundit Mark Lawrenson predicted a solid 2-0 win for Chris Wilder's side.

WEST BROMWICH, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 28: John Fleck of Sheffield United battles for possession with Filip Krovinovic of West Bromwich Albion during the Premier League match between West Bromwich Albion and Sheffield United at The Hawthorns on November 28, 2020 in West Bromwich, England. Sporting stadiums around the UK remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Jason Cairnduff - Pool/Getty Images)

placeholder image — WEST BROMWICH, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 28: John Fleck of Sheffield United battles for possession with Filip Krovinovic of West Bromwich Albion during the Premier League match between West Bromwich Albion and Sheffield United at The Hawthorns on November 28, 2020 in West Bromwich, England. Sporting stadiums around the UK remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Jason Cairnduff - Pool/Getty Images)

Expanding on the reasons for his pick, Lawro claimed: "It was a bad weekend for the bottom three, with Newcastle and Brighton both winning.

"At least both of these sides have been showing a bit of fight, though. It's clear they haven't given up hope yet.

"West Brom are still conceding, but not as many. They did well to stay in their game against Fulham on Saturday because they were completely outplayed in the first half, but they improved, and deserved their point."

The ex-Liverpool man continued: "Sheffield United could not manage a repeat of their win at Old Trafford when they went to Etihad Stadium, but they made life difficult for Manchester City.

"The circumstances make this the biggest game of the season so far for both of them, because it is the chance to do damage to the teams around them as well as getting three massive points themselves."

Lawro concluded: "A draw would not do much good for either side, especially Sheffield United. I fear for the Blades anyway, but if they don't win this one then it could be curtains for them."

The last time the two sides met, back in November, Conor Gallagher's first-half goal saw the Baggies scrape a 1-0 win at the Hawthorns.