Eleven points and four places separated Cardiff and Sheffield United last season. Cardiff made the play-off final and lost to Blackpool and have only just had the transfer embargo lifted. The Blades blew their play-off chances with poor road performances and lost 12 of 23 away from home.
For the match today Manager Dave Jones will be without key midfielders Joe Ledley following his summer switch to Celtic and Stephen McPhail who is recovering from a knee operation. Bothroyd should be available but Koumas, a key summer signing will probably be on the bench. Cresswell is likely to lead the line for Sheffield United.
The key factor will be weather Cardiff can recover from the play-off hang over. At puntinplay we think it may take them a bit of time and recommend the draw at 12/5 with Stan James.
