Reading will be without Jem Karacan, who begins a three-match ban after being sent off against Norwich.
Mikele Leigertwood is also suspended, but Brian Howard (toe) is back in contention and Alex Pearce (thigh) also returns to the squad.
MATCH PREVIEW
Sheffield United have won the last three encounters between these clubs, and another victory against Reading would be a much-needed boost for a Blades side in desperate need of three points.
Third from bottom, United have failed to win any of their eight matches under manager Micky Adams. They were denied a win against Millwall on Saturday by Kevin Lisbie's late equaliser.
Adams admitted to "getting a bit fed up" after that game. The result did at least end a three-match losing run, but United have now taken only three points from 27 since their last win: a 1-0 triumph against Swansea two months ago. That is their only maximum this season against a top-half side.
Reading have also been struggling of late. The Royals are 12th in the table and have lost ground in the promotion race after suffering back-to-back defeats and taking only two points from the last available 12.
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
• Reading have won 16 and United 14 of the 36 previous matches between these clubs.
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Sheffield United
• United have won only one of their last 12 league outings, and have drawn three and lost five of their matches under Micky Adams.
• This is the club's 900th home fixture in the second tier (W495, D229, L175).
• The Blades have failed to score in only one of their last eight home league games.
• Only nine players have scored league goals for the Yorkshire club this season.
• They have conceded the opening goal in 18 Championship matches this term - more than any other team.
Reading
• Reading have kept only one clean sheet in their last eight away league games.
• A draw would be the Royals' 13th of the season.
• Brian McDermott's side have not lost a league game this season after being in front.
• Shane Long and Jimmy Kebe could both make their 100th starts for the club.
Source: BBC Sport
Source: BBC Sport