Predicted Sheffield United line-up to face Leeds United: Blackman and Leonard return at Bramall Lane

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Sheffield United host Leeds United on Saturday lunchtime.

Sheffield United host Leeds United on Saturday lunchtime, looking for a league double against their Yorkshire rivals since the 2004-05 season.

Both teams have drifted away from the play-off picture in recent weeks, prompting Leeds’ sacking of Thomas Christiansen this week.

And just days after leaving Sheffield United’s local rivals Barnsley to take on the Dane’s old job, Paul Heckingbottom returns to South Yorkshire for his first game in charge of the Whites.

The Blades have suffered back-to-back league defeats – albeit against automatic promotion candidates Aston Villa and Wolverhampton Wanderers – and their boss Chris Wilder could look to freshen things up.

Simon Moore’s sending off at Wolves ensures at least one change will be implemented, although it is touch-and-go as to whether or not Jamal Blackman – Moore’s notional understudy – will replace him in goal.

Freshen-ups could be on the cards elsewhere, especially further up field where no goals have arrived in 180 minutes of football.

Lifelong Leeds fan Lee Evans should keep his place in midfield, as West Yorkshire natives Jake Wright (Keighley) and Clayton Donaldson (Bradford) push for starts.

Here’s how HITC Sport expects Sheffield United to look against Leeds…