Burnley could seal an instant return to the Premier League when they face Sheffield United at Turf Moor, live on Sky Sports.
The Clarets laboured to a 2-1 win over a nine-man Watford on Friday, with goals from Zian Flemming and captain Josh Brownhill proving decisive in a cagey and physical contest.
James Trafford delivered a man-of-the-match performance, making a crucial save moments before Flemming equalised.
Brownhill fired the Clarets ahead before Watford were reduced to nine men in a fiery second half, with two dismissals in just 10 minutes.
Sheffield United maintained their own promotion push with a 2-0 victory over Cardiff City on Friday evening — a result that confirmed the departure of Omar Riza as manager of the Bluebirds.
Permutations
The permutations are clear. If Burnley win they will be promoted to the Premier League.
Leeds United will also seal a return to the top flight after two years away, if Burnley win and they earn themselves three points on the road against Stoke City.
Victory would mark Scott Parker's third promotion as a manager, and the Clarets’ fourth promotion from the Championship in a row.
Should Burnley draw, they will require just one point from their final two fixtures. A loss — which would end a 30-match unbeaten streak — means they would need four points from their remaining games to ensure they go up automatically.
The press
Speaking to club media ahead of the match, Chris Wilder said:
”Big couple of days in terms of preparing the players, and it is not done yet – and we did not want it to be.
“We have obviously got to produce a huge performance, and hopefully that will allow us to win an incredibly important game of football.”
“Obviously now the big one is coming up on Monday,” said Scott Parker ahead of the match.
“It is a big game for the team and a big game for Turf Moor as well. It is a massive game for us, a massive game for everyone.”
Team news
Burnley
No new injury concerns have emerged following Friday’s match.
Jordan Beyer and Mike Tresor remain sidelined with long-term injuries.
Aaron Ramsey could feature from the bench after playing a full 90 minutes for the under-21s last week.
Tactical changes made against Watford appeared effective — notably the introduction of Josh Laurent, which allowed Josh Brownhill to push further forward.
Marcus Edwards endured a quiet performance during the win.
Sheffield United
Several of the Blades’ key players remain unavailable due to injury.
Tom Davies (muscle injury) and Rhys Norrington-Davies (groin) are expected to return later in April.
Ollie Arblaster (knee) and Sai Sachdev (leg) remain sidelined.
Jack Robinson returned to the bench against Cardiff, having missed training earlier in the week. Chris Wilder is hopeful he will be fit to travel to Turf Moor.
Likely lineups
Burnley
Trafford; Roberts, Egan-Riley, Esteve, Pires; Cullen, Laurent; Anthony, Brownhill, Hannibal; Flemming
Sheffield United
Cooper; Seriki, Ahmedhodzic, Robinson, Burrows; Peck, Souza; Hamer, Brewster, Rak-Sakyi; Campbell
Key players
James Trafford
It is a battle of the young goalkeepers on Easter Monday, with James Trafford once again between the sticks for Burnley.
He has enjoyed a standout season, breaking multiple records and earning a nomination for Championship Player of the Year.
Trafford played a pivotal role in the victory over Watford, earning praise from his manager who said:
“He is a world-class goalkeeper.”
Michael Cooper
Michael Cooper is set to start in goal for the Blades.
Since arriving from Plymouth Argyle, he has built a strong reputation for sharp reflexes, shot-stopping prowess, and composure.
This season, he has made 41 appearances, conceded just 27 goals, and kept 20 clean sheets.
Match details
Where is the game being played?
The match will be played at Turf Moor, home of Burnley.
What time is kick-off?
Kick-off is scheduled for 17:30 BST.
How can I watch?
The game will be broadcast live in the United Kingdom on Sky Sports.
