Sheffield United rightful League One favourites after play-off loss

Sheffield United have been installed as the 5/1 favourites to win the League One title – and that looks a bet well worth consideration.

The Blades finished last season in third place and endured play-off heartache after losing the final 8-7 on penalties to Huddersfield Town.

However, speaking to the Sheffield Star, Blades defender, Matt Hill, said: “We’ll be stronger, much stronger, for the experience.

“We know now how teams are going to raise their games when they play against us and especially when they come to our ground. We’ll be going into the new season even better prepared now.”

League One is certainly a combative league but both Brighton and Swansea City before them have shown it’s possible to pass your way to the title. However, the lessons from last season should see the Blades come back with a more combative edge.

Even regardless of that, there remains plenty to be encouraged about for Danny Wilson after their near miss last term.

They missed out on automatic promotion by just three points but had the best attacking record in the division – scoring more goals at home than any other team.

The Blades have added Crewe striker Shaun Miller this summer, along with defender Tony McMahon, while Hill has been signed on a permanent deal after finishing last season on loan at Bramall Lane.

With the added quality and the experience of last season behind them, backing the Blades to join their Sheffield rivals Wednesday in the Championship as champions looks well worth a punt.