Article by George Yiend
Saturday afternoon is probably the biggest in Blues’ season. It seems like I’m having to say that every week. Everyone at the club, including Garry Monk himself, has talked about how each game is a cup final and let’s just say, this is a World Cup final in terms of our season.
Since the recent three-game winning streak, it feels like there is a sense of regret for Blues. The missed opportunities in the Burton and Bristol City matches may count for a hell of a lot come the end of the season. If Barnsley were to win their game in hand, we will be in the bottom three. It looks like it may well come down to the final day again, unfortunately.
Nonetheless, if Blues are to survive, Saturday’s game against Sheffield United is a must win. There is no doubt the fans are doing their part with another big crowd expected at St. Andrews. But it really is time for the players to drag us out of this mess now. There is no time for mistakes. The opportunities we now create can no longer be missed ones. We must grasp them, take our chances and be ruthless.
When meeting Sheffield United earlier in the season, it took a Jeremie Boga wonder goal to take a point from the game. Let’s be honest, they were the better team. But Blues are at home and that could be telling.
The return of Che Adams from his suspension will be a huge boost. He hasn’t played since Blues’ last victory. Let’s hope his return spells a victory too not to mention that this game is against his former club. Sam Gallagher’s return to fitness is also a positive for Monk.
The Blues manager will be happy that he can once again field a two-man forward line.
However, arguably Blues’ best defender Harlee Dean will be starting a suspension after his dismissal at Wolves. Whether Monk opts for Jonathan Grounds or Marc Roberts to partner Michael Morrison at centre back will be interesting.
It’s going to be another nervy afternoon with one eye on results elsewhere. Bolton take on Wolves – let’s hope they can do us a favour and aren’t quite yet on the beach.
Barnsley take on Leeds – and I don’t need to mention how poor Leeds have been of late.
I hope missed opportunities don’t haunt us. It has an aura of third time unlucky this year, but if Blues can finally take the chances they are creating then we might just be able to get out of this mess.