Walsall vs Sheffield United - International trio return for Walsall

Posted Sunday, November 22, 2015 by PA

Walsall's international trio have returned fit ahead of the visit of Sheffield United.

Neil Etheridge, Tom Bradshaw and Romaine Sawyers are available after duty for their countries which saw last week's game with Shrewsbury postponed.

Sam Mantom remains sidelined with a twisted ankle but is closing in on a comeback after missing the last three weeks but defender James O'Connor is fit.

The Saddlers are also close to agreeing a loan extension with Manchester City for George Evans with the midfielder's initial deal expiring next week.

Sheffield United boss Nigel Adkins could name an unchanged starting XI as his side chase a first league win in four matches.

Adkins has no new injury or suspension issues and is keen to maintain continuity, while defender Chris Basham, midfielder Paul Coutts and forward Che Adams all overcame knocks in time to start in last week's home draw against Southend.

Louis Reed missed out with a foot problem and will be monitored, while fellow midfielder James Wallace made his first league appearance since August off the bench and will be keen to play a bigger role.

Adkins must decide whether to recall Mark Howard in goal or retain George Long, who has kept two clean sheets in the Blades' last three matches.