Derby County vs Sheffield United – Preview | OneFootball

Sheffield United finally put an end to their 2025/26 Sky Bet Championship campaign on Saturday afternoon when they make a short trip to Pride Park to play Derby County.

The Rams will have everything to play for in front of their home fans on Saturday. They currently sit just a point behind sixth-placed Wrexham and seventh-placed Hull City, so a victory against the Blades and some help from elsewhere could see Derby sneak into the play-offs on the final day. An 88th minute winner against Queens Park Rangers last Saturday has set up a potentially incredible storyline for this weekend.

United are well and truly on the beach after yet another poor display against Preston North End and another defeat at Bramall Lane where they conceded three goals. Chris Wilder has not held back in his frustration and criticism of the team in recent weeks as he continues to state big changes will be made at Sheffield United this summer.

Team News

Derby could be without former Blade Rhian Brewster for the final game as he continues to recover from a knee injury. Patrick Agyemang continues to be sidelined with an Achilles issue, while Bobby Clark will be monitored after suffering a hamstring strain in early April. Sammie Smodicz is a minor doubt after being forced off late in the game in their recent win over QPR.

The Blades will be without Kalvin Phillips and Andre Brooks once more for the final kick-off of the season.

Derby County’s Impact Player For This Game

One player who could have a major influence for Derby is Carlton Morris. The striker offers a strong physical presence and could be key to how Derby approach this game, particularly when they look to play more direct. Despite suffering from injuries this season, the former Barnsley striker has managed to score 12 times in 30 appearances.

Morris is excellent at leading the line. He uses his strength well to hold off defenders and bring teammates into play, which will be important if Derby look to relieve pressure and build attacks higher up the pitch. Against a Sheffield United defence that has been simply horrendous all season, his ability to compete physically could be a game changer.

Inside the penalty area, he is a constant threat. Morris has a natural instinct for goal and positions himself well to attack crosses and second balls. That makes him dangerous in situations where Derby are able to deliver into the box, whether from open play or set pieces.

He also offers an aerial presence, giving Derby another route to goal. Sheffield United will need to be organised defensively and ready to deal with crosses and long balls aimed toward him. Morris has averaged nine duels per game, with a 57% success rate. He’s also managed seven aerial duels per game.

Sheffield United’s Impact Player For This Game

One player who could be crucial for the Blades in this fixture is Gustavo Hamer, in what could be his last ever game in a Sheffield United shirt.

The Dutchman is often the driving force behind Sheffield United’s attacking play and will likely be central to how they look to break Derby down.

Hamer thrives when he is given the freedom to operate between the lines. His ability to carry the ball forward and commit defenders makes him a constant threat, particularly against well-organised teams. If he can draw Derby’s midfield out of position, it could open up space for Sheffield United’s forwards.

His passing range is another huge weapon. Whether it’s quick combinations in tight spaces or longer passes over the top of defences, Hamer has the vision to unlock any back line from any angle. He is also a threat from distance and from set pieces, especially shooting opportunities.

My Prediction

The Blades are limping over the finish line this season, it has been far from enjoyable. And I can sadly see Sheffield United ending the campaign with three defeats in a row. Derby County will win this 2-1 which could set up a tremendous headline if the Rams steal sixth place on the final day.

Stats taken from Fotmob and Opta.