Sheffield United vs Notts County preview - Strike duo back for Blades

Sheffield United strikers Michael Higdon and Marc McNulty will both return to contention for Friday night's home game against Notts County.

Higdon (hamstring) has been sidelined for six games and McNulty has been been out for a similar period due to a facial injury, while their return to fitness could prompt boss Nigel Clough to make changes.

Clough has no new injury or suspension problems but midfielder James Wallace (groin/hamstring) and defender Ben Davies (foot) remain sidelined.

Diego De Girolamo has returned to York on loan and fellow forward Che Adams is hoping to make his first appearance after twice being an unused substitute.

Gary Jones will be available for Notts County, after his red card against Yeovil last weekend was overturned on appeal.

Blair Adams was forced off with an injury against the Glovers towards the end of the first half and the defender is a doubt ahead of the trip to Bramall Lane.

A further injury blow for the Magpies has seen Zeli Ismail ruled out for around four months. The on-loan Wolves winger suffered a knee injury during the goalless draw with Accrington in the FA Cup first round at the beginning of November and he has now returned to his parent club for treatment.

However, Ryan Hall has been brought in as a replacement for Ismail and the Rotherham loanee will go straight into the squad against the Blades.