Chris Wilder talks up Phil Jagielka importance despite lack of game time

"Not just for this game, Phil's been a really important part of the group, whenever we have meetings, whenever I've spoken to him on a one-to-one situation," Wilder said.

"Obviously he's not had a lot of football this year because of the form of (Chris) Basham, (John) Egan and Jack O'Connell, but he's ready, he's fit and is raring to go.

"It was always going to be the case that if Jags wasn't playing his input would be invaluable."

Jagielka spent eight years with the Blades before joining Everton for £4million in 2007. He went on to captain the Merseyside club and made over 386 appearances in all competitions before heading back to Bramall Lane.

"He's filled us with confidence at times in terms of what to expect in the Premier League and the self-belief in the team," Wilder added.

"He's been absolutely first class. He's trained as if he was an 18-year-old, he interacts with the group and he interacts with myself and the staff.

"He's been a great signing and I'm sure we'll get him on to the pitch in one way or another throughout the season."

John Lundstram, who has started all five of the Blades' Premier League games this season, will also be returning to his former club, while fellow midfielder Mo Besic will play no part against his parent club.

Wilder will also be without suspended striker Billy Sharp following his straight red card for his challenge on Stuart Armstrong in last week's home defeat to Southampton.