Sheffield United vs Walsall preview - Blades boosted by duo

Sheffield United pair Chris O'Grady and Paddy McCarthy return to contention for the visit of Walsall.

On-loan Brighton striker O'Grady and defender McCarthy, on loan from Crystal Palace, were ineligible for the midweek Capital One Cup win against Southampton and boss Nigel Clough must decide whether to recall them to the starting line-up.

Defender Craig Alcock (back) and midfielders Stefan Scougall (knee), Ben Davies (foot) and James Wallace (groin/hamstring) are not expected to feature.

Clough made five changes on Tuesday night and Chris Basham, Florent Cuvelier, Louis Reed, Jamal Campbell-Ryce and Marc McNulty will all be hoping to retain their places in the side.

Walsall's Andy Taylor is set to return against his former club after returning to training this week.

The left back, who left Bramall Lane in 2012 and joined the Saddlers, has been out with an ankle injury which has forced him out of the last two games.

Rico Henry has been deputising but the rookie defender is likely to move back to the bench.

Midfielder Sam Mantom remains sidelined until next year with a long-standing knee problem.