ST: Freddie Draper
Freddie Draper would lead the line for me. His form coming into the break earns him that opportunity, and I would want to give him the chance to continue it rather than change things simply because we have been without a league game for three weeks.
There is certainly a case for Mikkel Ladefoged, and I would not be wholly surprised if he started. However, this is my XI, and Freddie’s performances before the break make him my choice for the central role.
ST: Ben House
Ben House is the first name on my teamsheet. His work sets the tone for how we play, and away from home we need that willingness to put defenders under pressure and make their afternoon uncomfortable.
I would want him close enough to Freddie to support him, while retaining the freedom to press and compete for the ball. Whatever the other decisions are across the forward line, Ben starts for me.
ST: Chiedozie Ogbene
Chiedozie Ogbene completes my front three. Chieo needed minutes coming into the international break, and getting football with Ireland should put him in a better position to start for us as he continues to build his rhythm.
The effect of international football will be different for each player. Where we might consider resting someone who has played regularly, Chieo getting the minutes he needed makes me more inclined to pick him.
That leaves Reeco Hackett and Rob Street competing with Ethan Wheatley and Tanto Olaofe for opportunities from the bench. There is plenty of competition there, and those players could have an important part to play if we need to change the game or freshen up our attack.
My Starting XI
Wickens; Oyegoke, Elerewe, Bradley, Towler, Reach; McGrandles, Varfolomeev; Ogbene, Draper, House.
We have already won three away league games, so there is plenty in our approach that has worked. I would back a familiar core, account for the international workload where we can, and give the forwards who were building form before the break the opportunity to carry it into Bramall Lane.
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