Sheff Utd vs Chelsea Prediction: Blades could trouble Blues’ defence

Chelsea are on a high after their late victory over Manchester United on Thursday night, but that win did paper over some cracks which could be exposed again when they visit Bramall Lane to take on Sheffield United on Sunday evening (17:30).

So, it's fair to say that goals are the focus of our Sheff Utd vs Chelsea prediction.

Match Odds

Chelsea are 2/5 favourites at Betfred to take all three points away from Bramall Lane on Sunday, while it's 6/1 that the relegation-threatened hosts record a crucial victory - and the draw is available at 4/1.

Team News

Sheffield United could have as many as eight players missing on Sunday, with Cameron Archer facing a late fitness test. Chris Wilder will likely stick with his usual 3-5-2 system, with little room for rotation.

Chelsea are hoping to get Ben Chilwell back after he missed the United game through illness. Pochettino could give Noni Madueke a start after his great finish on Thursday, although he’d likely need to drop Moises Caicedo.

Over 3.5 goals @ EVS

This has been a high-scoring Premier League season and these two sides look set to deliver more goals on Sunday. Sheffield United have the worst defensive record in the division, with 80 goals against in just 30 matches this term. They ship three goals per home game on average, while Chelsea are flying going forward.

The Blues have seen their attack click just as their defence is going through an injury crisis. Pochettino hasn't been able to call upon his first-choice back-five all season, which has shown in their games of late.

Chelsea go into this clash having seen over 3.5 goals land in 10 of their last 12 matches. The Blades are on a similar run, with at least four goals scored in 11 of their previous 12 matches. Having conceded 24 times across their last five at home, the league’s basement side are on course for another goal-filled encounter.

Over 1.5 Sheffield United goals @ 9/4

While United’s defensive issues are a factor here, Chelsea have been far too lax at the back in recent weeks. Axel Disasi in particular has looked quite error prone, and the inexperience they have in key positions seems to be costing them.

The Blues have conceded at least twice in their last six games, five of which were at home, having played host to two Championship clubs in the FA Cup as well as second-bottom Burnley in that run. The Blues aren’t just being exposed by quality sides, they are leaking far too many goals in every game.

The visitors have shipped two or more goals in eight away trips this term, while Sheffield United’s last home clash saw them claim a 3-3 draw with Fulham. The Blades troubled Liverpool in midweek, taking them to six goals scored across their last three games.

The Blues are good value to concede another couple of goals, while a 3-2 win for the visitors appeals.