Both Sheffield clubs have strikers missing for the next few weeks, perhaps the supporters of both clubs can have a pint together while commisserating over their respective losses. While two-goal hero Akpo Sodje is out for at least a month after getting injured against Burnley on Saturday, James Beattie is yet to take to the field for the Blades, with knee surgery holding the former Everton man back.
The Daily Mirror reports that the striker will be missing for another month, something which is a blow to the red-and-white half of the city. While the likes of Jonathan Stead, Billy Sharp and Darius Henderson are all capable of goals, it is the former Saint who can be relied on to score the most goals.
“James Beattie is going to be out for another month after he had his knee cleaned out,” said Blackwell.
“We’ll be delighted to have him fit again as Kevin Phillips and Beats are of the same ilk.
“Beats got goals last season that no-one else could have scored and of course we miss him.”
Last season’s goal return indicated that Beattie is one of the hottest striking properties in the Championship, although it’s not just the injury lay-off that United will have to contend with. It will then take their star man a few games to build towards full fitness, can the Blades stay in the promotion race while he’s absent?